Golden Chain Tree

Golden Chain Tree (Lophanthera lactescens) is a broad, fast growing evergreen tree from the Amazon region of South America, reaching up to 20m tall and wide. Large, glossy, bright green leaves form a shady crown, and long chains of golden flowers hang from it, followed by white seedpods. It is a tree for tropical and subtropical gardens with plenty of room.

Why you'll love it

• Chains of golden flowers. Long hanging chains of golden flowers give the tree its common name and make it a showpiece in bloom.
• Glossy evergreen leaves. Large, bright green leaves look fresh all year, not only when the tree is in flower.
• Fast growing. It builds height and spread quickly in warm, moist conditions.
• A broad, shady crown. Mature trees give generous shade over a lawn or street.
• Street tree credentials. It is a good street tree for warm climates, provided it has no overhead lines to bump into.

Where it works best

Feature planting. Use it as a specimen in tropical and subtropical gardens, with room for a crown 20m across. Allow at least 10m clear of buildings.

Streets and avenues. Keep it away from overhead lines so it can reach its full height, and space trees generously along the verge.

Parks and large properties. Its size and shade suit open ground, where the flowering display can be seen from a distance.

Growing Golden Chain Tree in Australia

Position and climate. Full sun for the best flowering. It prefers warm, moist conditions, which makes it a tree for tropical and subtropical gardens, and it is frost tender, so it is not suited to frosty districts. Avoid planting under overhead lines so it can reach its full height.

Soil. A deep, moisture holding soil with plenty of mulch suits it. It does not like being moved, so site it carefully with its mature size in mind.

Water and feed. Mulch well and water regularly until established, usually around 12 weeks. Provide extra water in dry periods, because it likes steady moisture. A slow release fertiliser each spring supports growth.

Pruning. Little pruning is needed. Remove dead or damaged branches, and plan ahead for its size so it never needs cutting back hard.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Golden Chain Tree as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly. A tube is a small plant, so expect to wait a few years for a real canopy and for flowers. Plant it out where it can stay, mulch well, and water regularly, because the tree does not like being moved.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Browse more feature trees
• Plants for tropical climates
• Fast growing shade trees
• Designing a lush tropical garden

Common questions

How big does the golden chain tree get?

Up to 20m tall and 20m wide, so it needs a large block, a park or a wide street. Plan for that size before you plant.

Can I grow it in a cooler climate?

It prefers warm, moist conditions and is best in tropical and subtropical gardens. We do not recommend it for frosty or cool climates.

Can I move it later?

Avoid it. The tree does not like being moved, so choose the final position with its mature size in mind.