yellowhorn (Xanthoceras sorbifolium)

Xanthoceras (yellowhorn)
Written By Colorado Tree Coalition

Second place champion yellowhorn in Denver at City Park.

Species info:

Leaves: Alternate, pinnately compound, 5–9” long

Leaflets: 9–17 per leaf; narrow, elliptic to lance-shaped, sharply toothed; 1½–2½” long; lustrous dark green above, lighter beneath; persist late into fall

Leaf Surface: Smooth and glossy above, lighter underside

Bark: Not specifically described; typical of small tree/shrub, likely gray-brown

Flowers: Very showy; bloom in May on slender stalks ¾–1” in diameter; white petals with yellow to red blotch at base of each petal

Botanical: Xanthoceras sorbifolium

Family: Sapindaceae

Mature Height: Up to 25 feet

Canopy Spread: Up to 15 feet;

Foliage Type: Deciduous

Tree Shape: Rounded, small tree or shrub habit

Flowers: Showy, white with yellow/red blotches; appear in May

Fruit: Edible capsule resembling chestnut

Fall Color: Leaves persist late into fall; no specific color noted

Water Use: Moderate; prefers well-drained, moderately fertile to fertile soils

Hardiness: Zones 5–8

Wildlife Value: Seeds may provide food for wildlife; flowers attract pollinators

Pests/Pathogens: No significant pests observed in Colorado

Recommendations for planting: Tree with potential

Information sources:

  • Michael Dirr, Manual of Woody Landscape Plants (6th Edition, 2009)

Colorado Tree Coalition
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