Laburnum Watereri GOLDEN CHAIN TREE (15 seeds)

Golden Chain Tree, also known as Laburnum or Laburnum x watereri, is a small tree from the Fabaceae family. It generally reaches a height of 3 meters at maturity and has a lifespan of about 10 years. It is native to the temperate and Mediterranean regions of Europe, as well as parts of Asia and North Africa.

This shrub is highly toxic, and ingesting the fruit can be fatal. Its leaves contain alkaloids with an action similar to the nicotine found in tobacco.

The leaves are compound, alternate, and generally feature three to five oval leaflets of a bright, glossy green. In summer, they create a pleasant contrast with the golden flowers, adding a touch of freshness and lightness to the tree. The foliage is deciduous, meaning it falls in autumn.

The yellow flowering is a dazzling spectacle that catches the eye in spring. The hanging clusters of flowers, often impressively long, bloom in May and June. The flowers, shaped like small pods, display a brilliant golden hue that illuminates the landscape.

After flowering, it produces elongated pods containing seeds. These fruits, generally brownish in color, measure 5 to 10 centimeters in length and form in summer.

Laburnum seeds are black, smooth, very resistant, glossy, and usually measure 3 to 5 millimeters in length.

- Uses:

Due to its highly ornamental nature, it can be planted in informal hedges.

Its wood is used for furniture making because of its quality.

Some parts of the plant are toxic and may be used with caution in herbal medicine.

In Germany, its leaves were once consumed like tobacco.

It is a melliferous species that attracts many insects.

- Germination and sowing of seeds:

• The best period to sow Golden Chain tree is from May onwards.
• Begin by soaking the seeds in lukewarm water for 3 to 4 hours.
• Sow them in a tray of fine potting soil at a depth of 5 millimeters.
• Water gently with a hand sprayer.
• Finally, place the culture in a greenhouse until the seedlings reach 15 to 25 cm in height.
• Germination generally takes 4 to 6 weeks.

- Substrate / Soil Type:

It grows very well in well-drained, light, and slightly acidic to neutral soils. Soil rich in organic matter promotes its development, but it can also adapt to less fertile soils. Avoid clayey or compact soils that retain too much moisture.

- Exposure / Sunlight:

This flowering plant thrives in full sun. Bright exposure is essential to guarantee abundant flowering and healthy growth. Partial shade can be tolerated, but it may reduce the quantity of flowers.

- Temperatures / Hardiness:

It is quite hardy and withstands temperatures down to -15°C, making it suitable for most temperate climates. However, during very harsh winters, it can be sensitive to late frosts.

- Watering / Water Needs:

Its water demand is moderate. It is important to keep the soil slightly moist, especially during planting and dry periods. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Mulching can help maintain soil moisture.

- Reproduction / Multiplication:

It reproduces mainly by seeds, but also by stem cuttings in mid-spring, although this method is less common and quite difficult.

- Pests / Predators:

This species is disease-resistant but can be attacked by a few pests, such as aphids and caterpillars. It is advisable to monitor the plant regularly and apply natural treatments in case of infestation.