Trees
Cladrastis kentukea
American yellowwood
A spreading native shade tree valued for hanging white flower clusters, smooth gray bark and golden autumn foliage. Its broad crown needs an open site. Establish good branch structure while young, and enjoy the bark and graceful outline even in years when flowering is lighter.
At a glance
- Sun
- Full sun / Part shade
- Size
- Height: 30 ft.–45 ft. · Width: 40 ft.–45 ft.
- Water
- Moist, well-drained soil
- Hardiness
- USDA zones 4–8
Sizes & prices
- #7Yellowwood$189.99
- #15YellowwoodCall for price
Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.
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Landscape use & tree form
- Use
- Shade tree; Ornamental specimen
- Form
- Rounded; Spreading; Vase
- Growth rate
- Slow
- Fruit / litter
- Flat brown pods follow flowering; bloom can be heavy in alternate years.
- Major issues
- Weak forks can break in wind or snow; Verticillium wilt is possible.
Resistance & tolerances
- Deer
- Grower assessments conflict; do not rely on this tree where browse pressure is high.
- Drought
- Tolerant once established; water during establishment and prolonged dry spells.
- Wet soil
- Requires drainage; choose moist garden soil rather than a waterlogged site.
Resistance is not a guarantee; deer and rabbits may browse any plant.
Pollinators & wildlife
- Attracts
- Bees
Native range
- Native range / parentage
- Eastern North America Species native to Kentucky.
- Tristate native status
- Species native to Kentucky.
Seasonal interest
- Foliage
- Deciduous
Growing & care
- Pruning
- Correct weak branch forks while young; prune in summer because winter and spring cuts bleed heavily.
Sources & photo credits
University of Minnesota Extension
Photo: Randy Harter · CC BY 4.0
Image notes: American yellowwood. Form–Fall–Buncombe Co, NC. Resized and converted to WebP.
Reviewed September 22, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.