Goldenrain Tree is an introduced, Asian species that is often planted as a street tree. The Digital Atlas of the Virginia Flora notes that, in Virginia, this species has "frequently escaped on roadsides and [in] other open, disturbed habitats state-wide." The same thing may be happening in Maryland. This species bears watching in Maryland (J. Hill/MNPS).
"Even though this tree is loved and valued by many, we cannot ignore the invasive characteristics that initiated its appointment as a Category II exotic invasive. Koelreuteria is a fast growing plant that is able to grow in an array of environmental conditions" (UF-IFAS Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants).
Goldenrain-Tree is a member of the Sapindaceae (Soapberry Family). The leaves are pinnately compound; the flowers are yellow and arranged in large panicles (when falling, they have been said to resemble "golden rain"); and the fruits ripen into brown, papery capsules that look a bit like Chinese lanterns (J. Hill/MNPS).
This species is still "recommended for cities because it is drought tolerant, pollution tolerant, and is pretty when it blooms" (J. Stasz, pers. comm.).
A host to Red-shouldered Bug (Goldenrain-tree Bug).
There are 58 records in the project database.
| GA | AL | WA | FR | CL | MO | HO | BA | BC | HA | CE | PG | AA | CV | CH | SM | KE | QA | CN | TA | DO | WI | SO | WO |
