Laburnum x watereri ‘Vossii’
Laburnum, Golden chain tree
Explore the size, hardiness, soil, light, harvest period and uses of Laburnum x watereri ‘Vossii’.
Common names
4 names · 3 languages- EnglishYour language
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- Golden chain tree
- Laburnum
Other languages (2)
- Dutch
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- Bastaardgoudenregen
- French
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- Cytise
Sources & name notes
Names recorded in our plant catalogue, grouped by language. Usage can vary by region.
General information
RHS documents 'Vossii' as a cultivar of Laburnum × watereri. The cultivar name distinguishes this selection from other golden chain trees.
Sources [2]Plant characteristics
Growing conditions
Moist, Well-drained
Sand (light) Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)
Acidic Neutral Alkaline
Full sun, Partial shade
Uses
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Insecticide, Nitrogen fixer, Wood, Rootstock
Description
This plant is often used as a rootstock for other members of the legume family. The seeds contain the toxic alkaloid 'cytisine,' which has insecticidal properties similar to nicotine (Nicotiana spp.). However, it cannot be recommended for use, as it must be used in such a high concentration that it can be absorbed over a large part of the body, with potentially fatal consequences. The wood has a coarse grain, is durable, dark-colored, and very hard. It can be used as a substitute for ebony. It is highly sought after by woodturners and is used in making instruments and furniture, especially where strength and smoothness are important.
Harvest
Crown
Sources and references
References for the information marked with source numbers on this page.
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Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
World Checklist of Vascular Plants, version 16, extracted 4 June 2026
Supports: Botanical family
Relevant sections
- Botanical family: WCVP v16, wcvp_names.csv row 489126; name ID 2350835; Laburnum Fabr.. Family column.
Source checked on .
Source data licence: CC BY 3.0.
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Royal Horticultural Society
Laburnum × watereri 'Vossii'
Supports: Taxonomy
Relevant sections
- Taxonomy: Name heading and taxonomic status; RHS documents the complete hybrid cultivar name. The Vossii selection must be retained when identifying photographs.
Source checked on .