Laburnum (Golden chain)

Laburnum anagyroides

Small European tree with spectacular pendulous racemes of yellow flowers in late spring — the famous Laburnum Arch at Bodnant Garden being the iconic example.

Hardiness ratings

Laburnum (Golden chain) hardiness across the four zone systems
SystemRatingTemperature rangeHow to read it
USDA hardiness zone Zone 5–8 −28.9 °C to −6.7 °C Plant tolerates down to this zone
RHS hardiness rating H7 down to −20 °C Plant needs at least this level of cold tolerance
Canadian plant hardiness zone Zone 5–8 −23 °C to −1 °C Plant tolerates down to this zone
Australian (ANBG) zone Zone 1–4 −15 °C to 5 °C Plant tolerates down to this zone

Growing notes

  • ALL parts of the plant are highly toxic — particularly the seeds. Historically a major cause of accidental child poisoning. Site away from play areas; do not plant near schools or nurseries.
  • Late-spring flowering is one of the defining sights of UK gardens
  • Short lived — typically 25–30 years

Pet caution: Laburnum (Golden chain) is listed as potentially harmful to cats and/or dogs. Keep pets from grazing on it, and contact a vet if you suspect your animal has eaten some.

Categories

Related plants

Cross-check Laburnum (Golden chain) against your zones

Reference

Laburnum (Golden chain) on Wikipedia