UK Flowers: Herbs, Shrubs, Vines & Trees
UK Flowers

UK LaburnumAlso known as: Golden Chain

Herb Icon Cultivated Flower     Toxic
Image of Laburnum
Laburnum anagyroides
Family: Fabaceae

Flower Properties

Property Value
English Name Laburnum
Also Known As Golden Chain
Scientific Name Laburnum anagyroides
MainColor Yellow
PlantType Herb Icon Herb
Distribution Cultivated Flower Cultivated
Season Found May (May - Jun)
ImageUrl Laburnum-001
Photographer DP
Location Found Abbots Langley
Country Found UK
Last Updated 01 September 2026
Photo Quality A

Flower Details

Description

A small deciduous tree known for its cascading racemes of bright yellow flowers in late spring, creating a dramatic display in gardens.

Distribution

Native to southern Europe. Widely cultivated in the UK and has naturalised in some areas, particularly along woodland edges and roadsides.

Medicinal/Other Uses

Historically used for its hard, durable wood.

Edibility

Contains the alkaloid cytisine, which can cause vomiting, convulsions, and even death if ingested in large amounts by humans or animals.

Human Toxicity Toxic
Toxic Highly_Toxic

Contains the alkaloid cytisine, which can cause vomiting, convulsions, and even death if ingested in large amounts by humans or animals.

Pet Toxicity Pet Toxicity

Highly toxic – ingestion of seeds, leaves, or flowers can be life-threatening for cats, dogs,

Active Compounds

Cytisine, a toxic quinolizidine alkaloid.

Quality Issue

Could do with flower close up

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