Care of the tree Calpurnia aurea or Wild laburnum |
|
The genus Calpurnia, family Fabaceae, comprises 7 species of trees and shrubs native to southern Africa. Some species are: Calpurnia aurea, Calpurnia capensis, Calpurnia villosa. Common names: Common calpurnia, Wild laburnum, Natal laburnum, Cape laburnum. This species is native to South Africa. They are trees or shrubs of elegant bearing and open crown that reach 4 meters (13.12 feet) in height in the gardens. The odd-pinnate compound leaves are formed by light green leaflets. The abundant and showy yellow flowers appear in hanging clusters. They can bloom in summer and again in fall. The fruits are light brown pods. These easy-to-grow, fast-growing plants are used as isolated specimens on lawns, in rockery, in pots or in bushy groups. Common calpurnia is ideal for Mediterranean coastal gardens. Calpurnia aurea prefers full sun exposure (produces more flowers) although it can live in semi-shade. It resists frost down to -5 ºC (23 ºF). Young specimens do not resist frost. Wild laburnum prefers well-drained soils with organic matter. The transplant is done in spring. Cape laburnum needs regular waterings always waiting for the soil to have dried. Fertilize with organic matter in late winter. Prune after flowering to maintain a compact appearance and favor the next flowering. Calpurnia aurea is a quite resistant plant to the usual pests and diseases. Natal laburnum propagates easily from seeds soaked one day and sown during spring or early summer. |
Images of the tree Calpurnia aurea or Wild laburnum |
 Calpurnia aurea  Calpurnia aurea |