Scientific Name
Koelreuteria paniculata
This tree, native to East Asia, produces yellow flowers so abundant in summer that they can nearly obscure the compound foliage. In addition to its flowers, it is most readily identified by its hanging, pointed, papery fruit capsules. These capsules appear slightly inflated and are often compared to Japanese lanterns. They remain on the tree well into the fall while gradually releasing small round black seeds, which can be seen littering the ground if you look closely. The foliage usually turns an orange-brown color in the fall, complementing the abundant fruit capsules. The capsules themselves also change color during late summer and fall on their own schedule, often giving the tree a warm two-tone appearance.
Golden rain trees typically remain relatively small, in the range of 25 feet in height. The current Colorado champion, however, is 49 feet tall, a full 11 feet higher than the second-place tree. This species grows fairly quickly and adapts well to many soil types. It is also tolerant of drought and air pollution.
Its main weakness may be sensitivity to low temperatures when young, though established trees generally withstand Denver winters without difficulty. In higher-elevation areas outside the city, cold hardiness may be more of a concern. Because the tree often produces abundant seed, it may occasionally sprout in nearby garden beds. However, since the seeds lack fleshy fruit, they are rarely spread by wildlife.