How to Grow Laburnum
Laburnum x watereri
Laburnum thrives in well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Plant in autumn or spring. It is very tolerant of poor soils and urban conditions. After planting, stake young trees for the first few years. The spectacular pendulous yellow flower chains appear in May–June. Prune only immediately after flowering. WARNING — all parts are highly toxic, especially seeds. Not suitable for gardens accessible to children or pets.
Yearly Lifecycle
Care Essentials
Apply a balanced slow-release fertiliser in spring. Avoid excessive nitrogen which promotes leafy growth over flowering.
Watch For
- Laburnum leaf miners
- Laburnum vein mosaic virus
- Honey fungus
- Mealybugs
Companions
Alliums, Geraniums, Aquilegia, Foxgloves
Care Requirements
Light
Full sun to partial shade
Prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade. A sunny position produces the best flowering display.
Watering
Moderate; drought tolerant once established
Water regularly during the first two years. Established laburnums are drought tolerant and rarely need supplemental watering.
Pruning
Immediately after flowering, early summer
Prune only after flowering to remove seed pods and shape the tree. Avoid late pruning which can reduce next year's flower display.
Mulching
Spring mulch to conserve moisture
Apply a 5–7 cm layer of compost or bark in spring. Keep away from the trunk.
Growing Tips
Poison warning
All parts of laburnum are highly toxic — seeds most of all. Wear gloves when pruning and wash hands. Do not plant where children or pets have unsupervised access.
Prune after flowering
Prune immediately after flowering in early summer to shape the tree and remove seed pods before they ripen. This also reduces toxic seed dispersal.
Spring mulch
Apply a 5–7 cm layer of well-rotted compost or bark around the root zone in spring. Keep mulch away from the trunk.
