Description

Saraca Thaipengensis (Yellow Saraca) is a small flowering tree reaching an approximate height of 30 ft. With an open spread round crown, and sturdy branching that features the characteristic large drooping pinnate leaves. 

Flowering and Foliage

Leaves are pinnate, deep green, and arranged in leaflets of 4-6 pairs. They measure up to 12 inches and when they are young (new flush). And appear in a pinkish color of a flaccid ‘handkerchief’ manner while they fill up with chlorophyll. 

The dark green droopy foliage of the Saraca Thaipengensis (Yellow Saraca) is embellished by the bright, colorful flowers. That bloom during the winter season lasting through spring. Furthermore the mildly fragrant flowers occur in dense clusters of around 40 cm. Protruding  from the trunk, stems and branches. Staring off pale and slowly turning into deep golden; tone with a crimson eye-spot. And interestingly flowers do not bear petals, but 4 sepals. 

Following its flowering period large, flat, saber-like seedpods form. Highlighting the already beautiful Saraca Thaipengensis (Yellow Saraca), with the iridescent, burnish, purplish to crimson pods.

Landscape Applications

Due to its outstanding dark green foliage, which gracefully contrasts with the pinkish new-flush, colorful flowering habit, and appealing seedpods; the Saraca Thaipengensis is a valued ornamental tree. Makes a great specimen accent tree for small gardens. Saraca Thaipengensis (Yellow Saraca) is sometimes confused with a close tree of the Saraca family the red to orange bloom Saraca Indica.