The Weeping Golden Chain Tree, Laburnum x watereri ‘Vossii’, is a captivating deciduous tree known for its distinctive ornamental qualities. Its most striking feature is the profusion of cascading golden-yellow flower clusters that drape elegantly, resembling shimmering chains. This graceful weeping habit and vibrant late spring blooms make it a popular choice for adding visual interest to garden settings. Its radiant floral display provides significant aesthetic appeal, drawing attention as a focal point.
Characteristics and Ideal Growing Conditions
Laburnum x watereri ‘Vossii’ is a hybrid, reaching a mature height of 15 to 30 feet with a similar spread, and growing at a moderate to fast rate. Its showy, pea-like yellow flowers emerge in late spring to early summer, usually in May or June, forming pendulous racemes up to 24 inches long. The foliage consists of light green, trifoliate leaves, each composed of three leaflets, which offer little fall color.
This tree thrives in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 5 through 8, performing best in zones 5 to 7 where summers are not excessively hot. Full sun exposure promotes the most prolific flowering, though the tree benefits from some afternoon shade in hotter climates to prevent heat stress. Well-drained, fertile soil is preferred, ideally with a slightly acidic to neutral pH, though it tolerates various soil types including chalk, clay, loam, and sand, as long as drainage is adequate.
Planting and Ongoing Care
Planting the Weeping Golden Chain Tree is best done in the fall or early spring, allowing the tree to establish its root system during cooler temperatures. When preparing the planting site, dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and about the same depth, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. After placing the tree, backfill the hole with soil, gently firming it around the roots to remove air pockets, and water thoroughly. Staking young trees may be necessary to support their developing trunks.
Consistent moisture is important, especially for young trees and during dry periods. Water deeply every two weeks, or when the top 3 inches of soil feel dry, increasing frequency during hotter weather. Avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Fertilization can be done annually in early spring before new growth begins, using a balanced granular fertilizer like a 10-10-10 formulation, or by incorporating organic pellets or compost into the soil.
Pruning should occur after flowering, in late summer or early winter when the tree is dormant. This maintains its weeping shape, removes dead or diseased branches, and encourages better blooming the following season. Remove any root suckers as they appear, and also remove the seed pods to conserve the tree’s energy for flower production. Avoid pruning in late spring or early summer, as the tree’s sap can bleed from cuts during this active growth period.
Understanding Toxicity
All parts of the Weeping Golden Chain Tree, Laburnum x watereri ‘Vossii’, are toxic if ingested. The seeds, contained within pea-like pods, pose the highest risk. Ingestion can lead to various symptoms in humans and pets, including nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, and weakness.
Due to its toxicity, precautions are necessary. Keep children and pets away from the tree, especially during the fall when seed pods ripen and drop. Properly dispose of fallen plant material, including leaves and seed pods. Wearing gloves when handling any part of the tree can also prevent skin irritation. If accidental ingestion is suspected, seek immediate medical attention for humans or veterinary attention for pets.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
The Weeping Golden Chain Tree can encounter a few common problems. Pests such as aphids and mealybugs may infest the tree, appearing as small insects on the underside of leaves or as cottony masses. A strong spray of water can dislodge these pests, or horticultural oils and insecticidal soaps can be applied for more severe infestations.
The tree can also be susceptible to diseases, including twig blight, canker, and leaf spot. Proper pruning to remove diseased wood and avoiding mechanical injury to the bark helps manage these issues. Root rot, indicated by yellowing or wilting leaves, often results from overwatering or poorly drained soil. Ensuring the soil is well-drained and watering only when the top few inches of soil are dry prevents this condition. If the tree fails to bloom, it might be due to insufficient sunlight or exposure to late frosts which can damage developing buds.