Koelreuteria Bipinnata
Koelreuteria Bipinnata

Koelreuteria Bipinnata

£19.99

6 in stock

SKU: koelreuteria-bipinnata Categories: ,
Common Name: Chinese Flame Tree
Size: 2-3 Litre
Hardiness: H5
Hardiness Ratings

All ratings refer to the UK growing conditions unless otherwise stated. Minimum temperature ranges (in degrees ˚C) are shown in brackets

  • H1a: under glass all year (>15˚C)
  • H1b: can be grown outside in the summer (10 - 15 ˚C)
  • H1c: can be grown outside in the summer (5 - 10 ˚C)
  • H2: tolerant of low temperatures, but not surviving being frozen (1 to 5 ˚C)
  • H3: hardy in coastal and relatively mild parts of the UK (-5 to 1 ˚C)
  • H4: hardy through most of the UK (-10 to -5 ˚C)
  • H5: hardy in most places throughout the UK even in severe winters (-15 to -10 ˚C)
  • H6: hardy in all of UK and northern Europe (-20 to -15 ˚C)
  • H7: hardy in the severest European continental climates (< -20 ˚C)
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2-3 Litre Pot

  • Position: Full sun
  • Soil: Moist, well drained
  • Growth Rate: Average
  • Flowering Period: July – August
  • Hardiness: H5
  • Eventual Height: 4 – 8m
  • Eventual Spread: 9 – 12m

Koelreuteria Bipinnata, commonly known as Chinese Flame Tree or Chinese Golden Rain Tree, is a beautiful deciduous tree that can add a touch of elegance and colour to gardens.

This Koelreuteria reaches a height of 8 metres with a spread of 4 metres, forming a rounded and spreading canopy. The tree features attractive, fern-like bipinnate foliage with bright green leaflets that create a delicate and airy appearance. In Autumn, the foliage transitions to stunning shades of yellow, adding a vibrant display of colour before the leaves eventually drop.

One of the most captivating features of this Koelreuteria is its striking display of flowers and fruit. In mid to late Summer, the tree produces abundant clusters of small, fragrant, yellow flowers that are arranged in panicles. The flowers give way to unique lantern-shaped seed pods that hang from the branches and turn from green to a reddish-brown colour as they mature. These ornamental seed pods persist on the tree throughout the Winter, adding visual interest and creating an attractive Winter silhouette.

When it comes to growing conditions, it thrives in full sun and prefers well-draining soil. It is adaptable to different soil types and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, once established. While it is relatively drought-tolerant, regular watering during prolonged dry spells can help maintain its overall health and vigour.

How to care for your Koelreuteria Bipinnata

  1. Watering: Water young trees regularly to establish a strong root system. Once established, the tree is fairly drought-tolerant, but it benefits from occasional deep watering during dry periods, particularly in the Summer months.
  2. Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or compost, around the base of the tree, extending out to the drip line. Mulching helps conserve moisture, suppress weed growth, and insulate the soil. Avoid piling the mulch against the trunk to prevent rot.
  3. Pruning: Prune during the dormant season to maintain its shape, remove any dead or damaged branches, and promote good airflow within the canopy. Avoid heavy pruning, as the tree naturally forms an attractive and well-balanced shape.
  4. Fertilising: Typically doesn’t require heavy fertilisation. However, you can apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser formulated for trees in early Spring to provide essential nutrients for healthy growth. Follow the package instructions for the recommended dosage and method of application.

Koelreuteria Bipinnata can be a unique and visually striking addition to gardens with suitable growing conditions. Its delicate foliage, vibrant autumn colour and ornamental seed pods make it a captivating tree that can serve as a focal point or provide shade and interest in larger landscapes.