Bougainvillea Goldenraintree – I.D.

Q: I saw two gorgeous trees in downtown Canton this week. The leaves were similar to pecan tree leaves and black walnut tree leaves. The tree was covered with hundred’s of beautiful clusters of watermelon-pink colored “hangy downy” triangular seed pods. Each pod held a few seeds the size of okra seeds. What is this beautiful tree?

A: An excellent description of bougainvillea goldenraintree (Koelreuteria bipinnata).

I love them due to the colored seed capsules…giving a wash of pink color under the tree in early fall.