Formosan flame tree

You’ve found a page for a plant that was once a UC Davis Arboretum All-Star.

As our climate has changed and our horticultural knowledge has grown, our experts have refined and added to the Arboretum All-Star lineup to include plants that are more climate-resilient, water-wise and supportive of pollinators and local wildlife.

Discover our new lineup of 130 Arboretum All-Stars.

Common Name

Formosan flame tree

Scientific Name

Koelreuteria elegans subsp. formosana

Description

Tropical-looking shade tree; has broad clusters of bright yellow flowers in fall, followed by coral-red seed pods; adaptable to various soils and watering schedules.

California Native

All-Star

Yes

Type

Tree

Size

Medium

Color

Yellow

Sun Exposure:

Full Sun

Water Needs:

Very Low

Low

Bloom Season(s):

Fall

Wildlife Value(s):

None

Pruning Needs

little or none; prune to shape in winter

Location(s) in Arboretum

East Asian Collection