Golden Chain Tree (Laburnum)

Laburnum is a small genus of deciduous trees and shrubs grown for pendent clusters of pea-shaped yellow flowers. Common laburnum is one familiar member; the genus also includes alpine laburnum and cultivated hybrids, so mature size, flowering display, and climate tolerance vary among plants. ## Garden character Laburnums are often planted as specimen trees or large shrubs. Common laburnum has trifoliate leaves and dense golden racemes that open in late spring to early summer. Published estimates for that species vary: the [RHS profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/87530/laburnum-anagyroides/details) gives 4–8 m for height and spread, while [NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/laburnum-anagyroides/) reports 15–30 ft tall and 15–25 ft wide. Those figures should not be assumed for every species or hybrid in the genus. ## Growing conditions Choose a sunny position with well-drained soil. Common laburnum tolerates some partial shade, but NC State notes that it struggles with the heat and humidity of the deep South and prefers regions with moderate summer and winter temperatures. Its yellow flowers usually open in May and June. All parts are poisonous if eaten, especially the seeds and pods; avoid placing the tree where children or pets may chew fallen pods. ## Maintenance Prune lightly only when needed, preferably after flowering. Remove root suckers if maintaining a single-trunk form, collect seedpods where children or pets are present, and wear gloves while handling the plant. For species-level description and taxonomic context, see [Trees and Shrubs Online](https://www.treesandshrubsonline.org/articles/laburnum/laburnum-anagyroides/).