Golden Rain Tree Plant Care
Koelreuteria paniculata Laxm.
Koelreuteria paniculata is a species of flowering plant in the family Sapindaceae, native to China, Korea, and Outer Manchuria in both Russia and Mongolia. Naturalized in Japan since at least the 1200s, it was introduced to Europe in 1747 and North America in 1763, and has become a popular landscape tree worldwide.
Every 7–14 days
Full sun to partial shade
50–90°F
40–70%
What Is the Golden Rain Tree?
Golden Rain Tree (Koelreuteria paniculata) belongs to the Sapindaceae family within the Koelreuteria genus. Golden Rain Tree is native to China, Korea, and Outer Manchuria in both Russia and Mongolia. Golden Rain Tree is also known as Chinese Flame Tree, Flame Tree, Golden Shower Tree.
Golden Rain Tree displays a small to medium-sized tree growth habit, reaching up to 25 inches tall with a spread of approximately 20 inches. Golden Rain Tree produces showy clusters of yellow flowers.
Leaf size: approximately 6 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Golden Rain Tree?
Koelreuteria paniculata requires watering every 7–14 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–14 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Golden Rain Tree Need?
Golden Rain Tree thrives in full sun to partial shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 200–1000 lux. Avoid placing Golden Rain Tree in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Full sun to partial shade
200–1000 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Golden Rain Tree Prefer?
Koelreuteria paniculata grows best at temperatures between 50°F and 90°F. Golden Rain Tree prefers humidity levels of 40–70%.
Temperature
50–90°F
Humidity
40–70%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Golden Rain Tree?
Well-draining loamy soil with added compost for nutrients. Good drainage is essential for Golden Rain Tree to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Golden Rain Tree?
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.
How Do You Propagate a Golden Rain Tree?
Golden Rain Tree can be propagated through seeds, softwood cuttings.
Fertilizing
Every 6 months
During the growing season
Is the Golden Rain Tree Toxic to Pets and Children?
Non-Toxic
Non-toxic to humans and pets
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Golden Rain Tree?
Golden Rain Tree is susceptible to aphids, scale insects. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Golden Rain Tree Need?
Golden Rain Tree grows outdoors in USDA Zone 5a – 9b. Native to China, Korea, and Outer Manchuria in both Russia and Mongolia, Golden Rain Tree is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Golden Rain Tree as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 5a – 9b
Keep exploring plants
Golden Rain Tree is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Koelreuteria genus — compare its care with other Koelreuteria species on PlantoScan.
Golden Rain Tree tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.
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