Cladrastis kentukea 'Lutea'

American Yellowwood

(Yellowwood)
A stunning native ornamental tree admired for its graceful, cascading clusters of fragrant white flowers in late spring and clear yellow fall color. ‘Lutea’ refers to the classic yellowwood selection prized for dependable bloom, refined structure, and elegant, park-like presence. This long-lived tree matures into a beautiful shade specimen with smooth gray bark and strong architectural form.

Size:



Width: 30–40 ft



Height: 30–50 ft



Zones: 4a–8b

Light: Full sun to partial shade
(Best flowering and form in full sun.)

Soil: Moist, well-drained soils; adaptable to clay and loam; prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH

Features:



Flowers: Pendulous, fragrant white pea-like flowers in late spring



Foliage: Blue-green leaves turning clear yellow in fall



Bark: Smooth gray bark with subtle striping; attractive year-round



Form: Upright when young, maturing to a rounded, spreading canopy



Attracts:
Pollinators (bees)

Uses:
Specimen tree, lawns, parks, large residential landscapes, native plantings

Notes:



Blooms are age-dependent; young trees may take several years to flower, but displays are spectacular once established.



Wood is relatively brittle—avoid heavy pruning and site away from high-wind exposure.



Native to the southeastern United States and generally pest- and disease-resistant.

Plant type

Deciduous Tree, Shade Tree

Height

30-50'

Width

30-40'

Hardiness zones

4–8

Sunlight

Full sun to part shade

Bloom time

Late Spring

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Orange, Yellow

Soil

Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Street Tree

Shape

Clump, irregular

Fruit

Yes

Drought tolerant

No