Cladrastis kentukea or yellowwood is a resilient, medium to large deciduous tree native to North America. Its range is restricted to the southeastern United States, extending from western North Carolina west to eastern Oklahoma and from southern Missouri and Indiana south to central Alabama. It thrives in well-drained soils and adapts to both alkaline and acidic conditions. Although rare in its native range and slow growing in its early years, once established, it becomes drought and road salt tolerant, making it a perfect choice for parks or open fields, offering excellent shade. While often requiring corrective pruning, pruning in late winter or spring may cause sap leakage, and its weak branches can be vulnerable to snow, ice, or windstorms. The tree produces beautiful clusters of flowers that attract pollinators.