Alan’s gold

Character & interest

This cultivar stands out for a rare combination of two assets: strong spring colour and decorative bark. The corky bark adds interest even when the tree is leafless, while spring delivers a very clear “wow” effect.

Colours

• Spring : orange at budbreak, shifting to gold / chartreuse.

• Summer : chartreuse to green, more subdued.

• Autumn : yellow, often then orange to red depending on conditions.

Habit & vigour

Upright habit (often columnar when young), then more balanced with age. Intermediate vigour.

Indicative size

Around 2.5–3 m at about 10 years, and 3.5–4.5 m at about 15 years (variable with soil, climate and training).

Exposure

Best results in gentle sun or bright partial shade. Good light enhances the spring “gold” effect, while protection from scorching exposure helps keep foliage cleaner in summer.

Origin & history

This cultivar is an introduction by Pat McCracken (Garden Treasures Nursery) (USA). The name is widely distributed as ‘Allen’s Gold’, but the introducer offers it as ‘Alan’s Gold’ (named after Alan Galloway).