Cladrastis kentukea 'Perkins Pink'

Pink Flowering Yellowwood

(Perkins Pink Yellowwood)
A rare and highly ornamental selection of American yellowwood distinguished by its soft pink-blushed flowers—a unique departure from the typical white blooms of the species. In late spring to early summer, graceful, pendulous flower clusters emerge with a subtle rosy tint, fading lighter as they mature. Combined with elegant branching, smooth gray bark, and golden fall color, ‘Perkins Pink’ is an exceptional specimen tree.

Size:



Width: 30–40 ft



Height: 30–45 ft



Zones: 4a–8b

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

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

Features:



Flowers: Pendulous clusters of pale pink to blush-white, fragrant pea-like blooms in late spring



Foliage: Blue-green compound leaves turning clear yellow in fall



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



Form: Upright when young, maturing into a broad, rounded canopy with refined branching



Attracts:
Pollinators, especially bees

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

Notes:



Flowering improves with age; young trees may take several years to bloom.



Branches can be brittle—site away from strong winds and avoid heavy pruning.



A rare cultivar valued for collectors and high-end landscape use.

Plant type

Flowering Ornamental Tree

Height

30-45'

Width

30-40'

Hardiness zones

4–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Bloom time

Early Summer, Late Spring

Flower color

Pink

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Yellow

Soil

Loamy

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Specimen, Street Tree

Shape

Oval/Rounded

Fruit

Yes

Drought tolerant

No