Caragana arborescens aka Siberian Peatree

Caragana arborescens, also known as the Siberian peashrub, Siberian pea-tree, or caragana, is a species of legume native to Siberia, China, Mongolia, and Kazakhstan. It was brought to the United States by Eurasian immigrants who used it as a food source during their westward travels. While it provided various benefits such as shelter-belts, wildlife habitat, nitrogen fixation, and prevention of soil erosion and snow drifting, it is considered an invasive species in some parts of the US. This perennial shrub or small tree can reach heights of 2-6 meters and has a moderate to fast growth rate. Its leaves are compound and alternate, ranging from light green to dark green, with many small leaflets. Fragrant yellow flowers bloom in May or June, followed by legume fruits that ripen in July and release numerous seeds. It is particularly invasive in woodland edge environments and pastures, especially in the upper Midwest region of the US.