Cladrastis sinensis

A rare and elegant tree native to parts of China, Cladrastis sinensis was introduced to the UK by Wilson in 1901 and has attractive green, pinnate (feather-like) leaves. These leaves are more delicate in appearance than those of its American cousin, Cladrastis lutea and turn a strong yellow in a good autumn.

Once established this also has delightful panicles of upright, fragrant, white flowers in mid-summer although the tree can be five to ten years old before the flowers start making their appearance.

• Position: Full sun or light, dappled shade.
• Soil: Well-drained, fertile soils.
• Hardiness: Hardy. Cladrastis sinensis will grow best in an area sheltered from strong winds.
• Flowering Period: June.
• Flower Colour: White
• Rate of Growth: Moderate.
• Habit: Cladrastis sinensis grows to be a small or eventually medium sized tree in the U.K. once established.
  • Height: 10 m (32 ft)
  • Spread: 8 m (26 ft)