Image 1 of 1

Public Plant Profile

Yellowwood

Cladrastis kentukea

Category: Deciduous Tree • Yellowwood

Discover the beauty of Yellowwood, a stunning tree with fragrant flowers and vibrant fall color.

Request Consultation Browse All Plants

Mature Height: 30-50 feet

Mature Width: 30-50 feet

Bloom Color: Yellow, White

Bloom Time: Spring

Light: Sun

Zone: Zones 4-8

Maintenance: Low

Growth Rate: Moderate

Season of Interest: Spring

Foliage: Deciduous

Community Photos

Upload some of your best photos for this plant by clicking below.

Bold Outdoors Verified Insight

Designed & Reviewed by

Josh Graber

Owner and Landscape Designer · Kansas State University · 25+ Years Experience

B.S. in Horticulture and Landscape Design – Kansas State University

25+ years of industry experience

Description

Yellowwood is a deciduous tree known for its stunning yellow flowers and attractive bark. It is native to the eastern United States and is often used as an ornamental tree in landscapes.

Ideal Conditions

Prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Tolerates a range of moisture levels.

Soil Preferences

Well-drained soil is ideal, with moderate moisture. Adaptable to various soil types and pH levels.

Sun Needs

Sun

Landscape Guidance

Landscape Use

specimenshade tree

Special Features

Attractive barkfragrant flowersfall color

Wildlife Value

Attracts pollinators and provides habitat for birds.

Resistance / Tolerance

Moderate drought tolerance

Notes from Our Designer

Best used as a focal point in larger landscapes. Provides excellent shade and visual interest throughout the seasons.

Related Plants

See How Similar Plants Are Used in Real Landscapes

Explore related plants, compare shape, texture, and overall planting style, and get a better feel for what may fit your own outdoor space.

Design Ideas Using This Plant

Use this page to get a feel for where Yellowwood may fit in the landscape, then explore similar plants below for more ideas on form, texture, and overall planting style.

What Clients Say

★★★★★

“We did a complete overhaul of our landscaping after moving into our new home. We removed bushes, a tree, several plants and built 2 retaining walls. Bold Outdoors spent a lot of time talking with us about what we wanted…”

Natalie K.

★★★★★

“Josh of Bold Outdoors was a very professional, hard working landscape service provider. He worked with me very well blending his ideas with that I had already done in my landscape. He worked with me instead of telling…”

Ann R.

Helpful Next Steps

Browse All Plants See Design Services Request a Consultation

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Yellowwood a good fit for Kansas City landscapes?

That depends on sun exposure, moisture, spacing, and how the plant will be used in the overall design. Bold Outdoors evaluates those practical conditions before recommending a plant broadly.

How should homeowners use this plant information?

Use the plant profile as a planning tool for size, conditions, and visual role, then connect it to the broader landscape design and installation plan for the property.

Next Step

Ready to plan your landscape?

Browse more plants or reach out and we will help you choose the right combination for your space.

Request a Consultation Browse All Plants