The species are Laburnum anagyroides — common laburnum and Laburnum alpinum — alpine laburnum. They are native to the mountains of southern Europe from France to the Balkans.
The golden chain tree, also called laburnum, is a beautiful plant that blooms 10 to 20-inch long racemes of fragrant, yellow, wisteria-like flowers in late spring. It prefers to grow in full sun, in moderately moist, well-draining, enriched soil in a moderate climate. All parts of the tree contain cytisine, a toxic substance to humans and pets. 1 2
Laburnum, (genus Laburnum), genus of two species of poisonous trees and shrubs belonging to the subfamily Faboideae of the pea family (Fabaceae). The wood of Scotch, or alpine, laburnum (Laburnum alpinum) has a striking greenish brown or reddish brown hue and takes a good polish.
Laburnum s are more commonly known as Golden Chain Trees. In the spring, the tree blooms with large clusters of bright yellow flowers. The panicles, or clusters, can be up to 10 inches (25 cm) in length. Desirable for their showy spring appearance, the trees can grow on a single trunk or as a shrub.
How to Grow and Care for Laburnum - World of Flowering Plants
Laburnum anagyroides, called common laburnum or golden chain tree, is a small, low-branched, deciduous tree or large shrub that is native to the mountains of central and southern Europe. It typically grows to 15-25' tall.
Laburnum is native to Europe and Asia and belongs to the Pea Family. Golden-chain trees are among the most beautiful of flowering trees with three-part leaves and long drooping clusters of yellow pea-shaped flowers. The flowers are reminiscent of wisteria.