American Yellowwood Plant Care

American Yellowwood (Cladrastis kentukea) belongs to the Fabaceae family within the Cladrastis genus. American Yellowwood is native to the Southeastern United States, with a restricted range from western North Carolina west to eastern Oklahoma, and from southern Missouri and Indiana south to central Alabama. American Yellowwood is also known as Yellowwood, Kentucky Yellowwood, Cladrastis albiflora.

American Yellowwood displays a medium-sized deciduous tree growth habit, reaching up to 30 inches tall with a spread of approximately 25 inches. American Yellowwood produces showy clusters of white flowers in late spring to early summer.

Leaf size: approximately 6 inches.

Cladrastis kentukea requires watering every 7–10 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.

American Yellowwood thrives in full sun to partial shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 200–1000 lux. Avoid placing American Yellowwood in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Cladrastis kentukea grows best at temperatures between 0°F and 100°F. American Yellowwood prefers humidity levels of 40–70%.

Rich, well-draining loamy soil with added organic matter. Good drainage is essential for American Yellowwood to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

American Yellowwood can be propagated through seeds, root cuttings.

American Yellowwood is susceptible to aphids, caterpillars, leafhoppers. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

American Yellowwood grows outdoors in USDA Zone 4 – 8. Native to the Southeastern United States, with a restricted range from western North Carolina west to eastern Oklahoma, and from southern Missouri and Indiana south to central Alabama, American Yellowwood is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow American Yellowwood as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.