Star of India

[magmcc]

Does anyone know about the Star of India tree mentioned by Monty Don in his programme which, apparently grows in a canopylike fashion but I would like to know if it has some other name as I can't find the information of whether it is evergreen or not.

Mac

[Robinia]

I'm wondering whether you mean Indian bean tree (catalpa bignonioides) magmcc?
Despite my user name I'm not a tree expert :-)

have a look here

[logman]

Apart from the indian bean tree, already mentioned, which is actually from north America, the only other thing i can think of is a variety of Clematis with the name "star of india" not a tree of course but it will grow up into a tree conopy.

It has red/mauve flowers in july, preferes full sun with its roots in the shade on fertile well drained soil

There is also a tree called pride of india, which has beautiful cascades of yellow flowers and pinate leaves (a bit like ash but bigger) Is that the one ?

[magmcc]

Robinia & Logman

Sorry I've been so long in thanking you but wondered if I could find the answer first and tell you and I have. Tried the BBC Gardening Chat Room and got the following:-

It was on the Titch's programme, The Gardener's Year, and its botanical name is Koelreuteria paniculata, also known as 'Golden-rain tree' or 'Pride of India'. (I thought he said "Star", as well!).

Grows to 30' high and as much across. Needs a sunny spot and well-drained.

Sorry, forgot to say it isn't evergreen.

Thanks for your input.

[Robinia]

Hi Mac - glad you've sorted it. It's not a tree I'd heard of so I've looked it up & it's lovely. I've watched the Gardener's year too but obviously I wasn't paying close enough attention! :-)