Set of 2 Chinese lacquer trees – Koelreuteria paniculata – Height 40–60 cm, 9 cm pot

Koelreuteria paniculata, better known as the Chinese lacquer tree or balloon tree, is a remarkable ornamental tree that offers something striking to look at over several seasons. In spring, the young leaves emerge in shades of bronze; in mid-summer, large panicles of small yellow flowers appear, followed by the characteristic inflated fruits. In autumn, the leaves turn warm shades of yellow and orange.

This set comprises two young plants that can be grown into a substantial multi-stemmed shrub or a medium-sized tree. This species thrives particularly well in a warm, sunny spot; warm summers generally result in more abundant flowering.

Why choose Koelreuteria paniculata?

• Large yellow flower panicles in the middle of summer
• Striking, balloon-shaped fruits after flowering
• Bronze-coloured young leaves in spring
• Beautiful yellow to orange autumn colour
• Can be grown as a single-stemmed tree or a multi-stemmed specimen
• Tolerates drought well once established

Contents of this set

• 2 x Koelreuteria paniculata – Chinese lacquer tree
- Pot size: 9 cm
• Height on delivery: approx. 40–60 cm (approximate)
• Total number of plants: 2

The plants are supplied in a nursery pot and will continue to grow after planting. The stated height at the time of delivery is always approximate for these young 9 cm plants. Depending on the season, pruning and stage of growth, the plants may be a few centimetres shorter or taller.

On growth, flowering and fruiting

Koelreuteria paniculata naturally grows as a large shrub, a multi-stemmed tree or a medium-sized tree. As the plant matures, it develops a broad, almost round and somewhat irregular crown. Under favourable conditions, the tree can eventually reach a height of around 5 to 10 metres or more.

The large, compound leaf consists of several leaflets. When it first emerges, the leaf often has a lovely bronze-like hue, before turning green during the summer. In autumn, it changes colour again, taking on shades of yellow to orange.

In July and August, large, loose panicles may appear, bearing numerous small yellow flowers. The flowering period occurs relatively late in the season and therefore makes a lovely addition to trees and shrubs that mainly flower in spring. Bees and other pollinating insects are keen to visit the flowers.

After flowering, the tree produces its distinctive bladder-shaped fruits, from which it derives its name, the ‘bladder tree’. These start out green and then turn bronze-coloured. The papery fruits contain black seeds. The fruits can remain on the tree for a long time.

Care

The Chinese lacquer tree prefers a sunny, warm and somewhat sheltered spot. The warmer and sunnier the summer, the greater the chance of abundant flowering, as a rule.

This species has relatively few soil requirements. Well-drained garden soil is the most important factor. Once well-established, Koelreuteria can tolerate dry spells well.

Young plants do need to be watered regularly during their first growing season. This helps them to develop a strong, deep root system. You can fertilise them in the spring using a general-purpose organic fertiliser, but heavy fertilisation is not necessary.

Prune

Koelreuteria paniculata requires very little pruning. Its natural, somewhat irregular crown is, in fact, a characteristic feature of this species.

If you wish to grow one of the young plants into a tree, you can focus your efforts during the first few years on developing a single, continuous trunk and crown. For a multi-stemmed form, on the other hand, you can retain several strong shoots.

You should also remove mainly damaged, crossing or unwanted branches.

Winter care

Once well established, Koelreuteria paniculata is hardy and well suited to the Dutch climate. Young plants are somewhat more sensitive to severe frost and cold winds.

We therefore recommend planting these young 9 cm plants in a slightly sheltered spot. Should new growth be damaged during a harsh winter, a healthy plant will usually recover well in the spring.

The Chinese lacquer tree is deciduous. After the autumn colours have faded, the leaves fall off and the plant stands bare throughout the winter.

A special tree for lovers of striking varieties

Koelreuteria paniculata is particularly appealing to those looking for an ornamental tree that is attractive not only whilst in flower. From the bronze-coloured young leaves and the yellow summer flowers to the striking capsule fruits and warm autumn colours: the tree’s appearance changes constantly throughout the season.

Combine the Chinese lacquer tree with other unusual ornamental trees and exotic-looking garden plants to create a garden featuring striking blooms, foliage textures and autumn colours.