Golden Rain Tree Koelreuteria paniculata 'Coral Sun' (PBR)
ABOUT
The 'Coral Sun' Golden Rain Tree is a visually stunning ornamental tree that brings a vibrant splash of color to any landscape. One of its most captivating features is the foliage, which undergoes a dramatic transformation throughout the seasons. During the spring, the new leaves emerge, presenting a brilliant coral or pinkish-orange hue, hence the name 'Coral Sun.' As the leaves mature, they evolve into a bright yellow-green color, providing a stark and beautiful contrast against the early vibrancy. This decidropical plant's distinct leaves are divided into multiple leaflets, lending a fine texture to the tree's overall appearance. In addition to its attractive foliage, the tree is acclaimed for its showy floral display. Around mid-summer, it becomes adorned with large, airy clusters of yellow flowers, which gracefully hang down, creating a charming effect that resembles falling rain. These blossoms are not only beautiful to look at but are also a magnet for local pollinators such as bees. Following the floral show, the tree produces lantern-like seed pods that start off with a green color and eventually transition to a warm, brown hue as they dry. These papery pods can add an interesting visual and textural element to the tree even after the leaves have dropped in the fall. Overall, the 'Coral Sun' Golden Rain Tree is a delightful addition with its striking, seasonally changing colors, charming flowers, and unique seed pods. It is a versatile plant that can enhance the aesthetic appeal of parks, gardens, and streetscapes alike.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Sapindaceae
Synonyms
Golden Rain Tree, Pride of India, Varnish Tree, China Tree
Common names
Koelreuteria paniculata 'Coral Sun' (PBR).
ToxicityTo humans
The Golden Rain Tree is generally considered to have a low level of toxicity to humans. It is not commonly associated with serious risks if ingested. However, as with many plants, individual sensitivities can vary, and eating plant parts may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, including symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea in some people. It is advisable to avoid ingesting parts of this plant.
To pets
The Golden Rain Tree is also regarded as having a low level of toxicity to pets. It is not typically listed among plants that pose significant risks to dogs, cats, or other domestic animals if ingested. However, as with humans, pets may experience mild gastrointestinal upset with symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea if they consume parts of the tree. It is usually recommended to prevent pets from eating plants to avoid potential adverse reactions.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Mixed
Flower color
Yellow
Height
20 feet [6 meters]
Spread
20 feet [6 meters]
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
6
Native area
China
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Koelreuteria paniculata 'Coral Sun' offers vibrant foliage that changes color throughout the seasons, with new growth in a coral-pink shade, maturing to lime-green and then turning to a bright yellow in autumn.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant, making it suitable for planting in regions with low rainfall.
- Low Maintenance: It does not require a lot of care, making it ideal for gardeners who prefer low-maintenance landscaping options.
- Pest Resistance: This cultivar is generally resistant to pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments in the garden.
- Attracts Wildlife: The tree produces flowers and seed pods that attract various species of birds and insects, promoting biodiversity.
- Shade Provider: The Golden Rain Tree has a spreading canopy that provides shade in gardens and on streets during the hot summer months.
- Urban Tolerant: It can tolerate urban conditions such as pollution and confined soil spaces, making it suitable for city environments.
- Seasonal Interest: Its unique lantern-like seed pods add to its ornamental value, especially in the fall and winter months.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Goldenrain tree is used in bonsai cultivation for its attractive foliage and interesting structure.
- The leaves of Goldenrain tree can be used as a natural yellow dye for fabrics, providing an eco-friendly alternative to chemical dyes.
- The dense canopy of Goldenrain tree provides shade and can serve as a natural cooling element in urban landscapes.
- Goldenrain tree's hardwood can be utilized in woodworking for making durable small objects like handles and crafts.
- The dried seed pods of Goldenrain tree can be used in floral arrangements and decorative crafts due to their unique shape and texture.
- The tree can be planted to form alleys or hedges in landscape design, thanks to its symmetric growth pattern and ornamental value.
- Goldenrain tree provides habitat and food for wildlife, such as bees, which are attracted to the flowers, and birds, which may feed on the seeds.
- Goldenrain tree wood can be used for making musical instruments such as flutes and small percussion items due to its acoustic properties.
- The tree can be integrated into windbreaks to protect soil from erosion and crops from wind damage on farms and rural properties.
- Goldenrain tree seeds can be used in educational contexts to demonstrate the process of germination and plant growth to students.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Golden Rain Tree is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Golden Rain Tree is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Beauty & Uniqueness: 'Coral Sun' has vibrant coral-colored young foliage, which matures to bright green. This distinctive color change symbolizes beauty and the unique journey of growth and transformation.
- Abundance & Prosperity: As the common name suggests, Golden Rain Tree is known for its dazzling display of yellow flowers, reminiscent of gold, which can be associated with wealth and abundance.
- Good Fortune: The Golden Rain Tree is often planted in gardens to bring good luck and fortune, as its showy clusters of flowers create a joyful and welcoming environment.
- Strength & Resilience: With its robust growth and adaptability to various climates, the Golden Rain Tree symbolizes strength and the ability to withstand life's challenges.
WaterThe Golden Rain Tree should be watered deeply and thoroughly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Initially, after planting, water the tree about once a week, providing about 1-1.5 gallons of water each time to establish a strong root system. Once established, the tree's watering needs will decrease, and it will require additional water only during prolonged dry spells or extreme heat. During the growing season, if there is no rain, watering every two weeks with 2-3 gallons of water may be necessary.
LightThe Golden Rain Tree thrives in full sunlight, so it should be planted in a location that receives at least six hours of direct, unfiltered sunlight each day. The best spot for this tree is an open area with clear exposure to the sun for most of the day to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering.
TemperatureThe Golden Rain Tree is hardy and can withstand a range of temperatures. It can survive minimum temperatures down to about -10°F and is comfortable in the heat, up to temperatures of around 100°F. The ideal temperature range for this tree is between 50°F and 90°F for optimal growth.
PruningPruning the Golden Rain Tree is important to maintain its shape, remove any damaged or diseased limbs, and encourage new growth. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins, removing any crossing or rubbing branches. Annual pruning is generally recommended to keep the tree healthy and aesthetically pleasing.
CleaningAs needed
SoilGolden Rain Tree thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 5.5 to 7.5. A mix of loam, peat, and sharp sand provides good aeration and nutrients. Adding organic matter like compost enhances soil fertility.
RepottingThe Golden Rain Tree, being a large tree, is not typically repotted once planted outdoors. Instead, it may require occasional transplantation to a larger area as it grows over several years.
Humidity & MistingGolden Rain Trees are adaptable to various humidity levels and do not require specific humidity conditions to thrive outdoors.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Not suitable for indoor growth due to its large size.
Outdoor
Plant in sunny spot with well-drained soil; water regularly until established.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleGolden Rain Tree 'Coral Sun', scientifically known as Koelreuteria paniculata 'Coral Sun' (PBR), starts its life cycle as a seed. Upon germination, the seed develops into a seedling with a root system and a shoot that pushes through the soil. As it grows, it develops characteristic pinnate leaves that start as a coral pink, turn to bright yellow-green in summer, and finally a golden yellow in fall. The young tree matures and begins flowering in mid-summer, producing panicles of bright yellow flowers that attract pollinators. Following flowering, it forms distinctive, bladder-like seed pods that change from green to beige as they dry. Over the years, the tree reaches full maturity and can reproduce by producing seeds, continuing its life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Late Winter - Spring
Koelreuteria paniculata 'Coral Sun', commonly known as Golden Rain Tree, is often propagated by seed. The best time to propagate this plant by seeds is in the fall shortly after the seeds have matured. To propagate, collect the seed pods from the tree once they have dried and turned brown. The seeds should be removed from the pods and can be directly sown outdoors in the fall. By sowing seeds in the autumn, you allow the cold winter temperatures to naturally stratify the seeds, breaking their dormancy and promoting germination in the spring. It is important to note that seeds may not produce plants identical to the parent due to the genetic variation inherent in sexual reproduction.
