laburnum

/leuh berr"neuhm/, n.

any of several small trees belonging to the genus Laburnum, of the legume family, having elongated clusters of pendulous yellow flowers, esp. L. alpinum, the Scotch laburnum. Also called golden chain.

[1570-80; < NL, L]

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▪ plant

 any member of the genus (Laburnum) of trees and shrubs having butterfly-like flowers, and belonging to the subfamily Faboideae of the pea family (Fabaceae). The leaves are composed of three leaflets, and the flowers are disposed in hanging clusters (see photograph—>). The pods are slender and compressed. Laburnum anagyroides, often called golden chain, is native to southern Europe and is cultivated as an ornamental. The leaves have elongate stalks, and the bright yellow flowers hang in pendulous racemes up to a foot in length.

      All parts of laburnums are poisonous, especially the seeds. The roots taste like licorice, which is a member of the same family. Occasionally, laburnum has proved fatal to cattle, though hares and rabbits are unharmed. The wood of laburnums has a striking greenish brown or reddish brown hue and takes a good polish. It is ideal for cabinetmaking and inlay and was at one time the most prized timber in Scotland.

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