Scotch Laburnum

(Laburnum alpinum)

Scotch Laburnum (Laburnum alpinum)

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Estimated Native Range

Summary

Laburnum alpinum, commonly known as Scotch Laburnum, is a deciduous tree native to the mountainous regions of Central and Southern Europe, often found in open woodlands and on rocky soils. It typically grows to 5 meters (16 ft) tall and 6 meters (20 ft) wide, with a fast growth rate. The tree is notable for its long, pendulous racemes of vanilla-scented, pea-like, yellow flowers that bloom from May to June, which are highly attractive to pollinators. The flowers give way to seed pods that ripen from September to October. Its leaves are trifoliate, with three leaflets, and it has smooth, gray-green bark.

Scotch Laburnum is valued for its striking floral display and is often used in ornamental plantings, urban landscapes, and as a focal point in gardens. It is also appreciated for its ability to transplant well even at a large size. The tree is adaptable to a range of soil types, including well-drained sandy, loamy, and even heavy clay soils. It prefers acidic, neutral, and basic (alkaline) soils and can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or full sun. While it can withstand strong winds, it does not tolerate maritime exposure but does tolerate atmospheric pollution. It is hardy to USDA zone 5. In cultivation, it requires medium amounts of water and can handle various drainage speeds. However, all parts of the plant are highly toxic if ingested, and care should be taken, especially around children and pets.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

Plant Type: Tree
Height: 15-30 feet
Width: 15-30 feet
Growth Rate: Rapid
Flower Color: Yellow
Flowering Season: Spring
Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
Water: Medium
Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Fragrant, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Native to mountainous regions of Central and Southern Europe, often found in open woodlands and on rocky soils

Other Names

Common Names: Scottish Laburnum, Alpine Laburnum, Alpe-Guldregn, Alpen-Goldregen, Kaljukultasade, Cytise Des Alpes, Citiso Alpino, Alpegullregn, Alpgullregn

Scientific Names: , Laburnum alpinum, Cytisus alpinus, Laburnum alpinum var. macrostachys, Laburnum alpinum var. pilosum, Cytisus angustifolius, Genista alpina, Cytisus alpinus var. macrostachys, Cytisus alpinus var. pendulus, Cytisus alpinus var. pilosus

GBIF Accepted Name: Laburnum alpinum (Mill.) Bercht. & J.Presl