Xanthoceras sorbifolium, the yellowhorn, shiny leaf yellowhorn, goldenhorn, or Chinese flowering chestnut, is a woody oil tree species in the family Sapindaceae, and the only species in the genus Xanthoceras. · Yellowhorn trees (Xanthoceras sorbifolium) are deciduous shrubs to small trees (6-24 feet tall) that are native to north and northeast China and Korea. The foliage looks a bit like a sumac and is glossy dark green on the upper side and paler on the underside. Yellowhorn (Xanthus sorbifolium) grows naturally in these desert climates, withstanding the sub-freezing winters and hot summers, and produces oil-rich seeds that can be used in food, cosmetics and as a biofuel. · The yellowhorn is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to northeastern China. It’s revered not only for its ornamental qualities but also for its edible nuts and potential uses in sustainable agriculture. Learn how to plant and care for a yellowhorn tree with our expert guide. Get tips for thriving blooms and edible seeds! Yellowhorn is a rare, deciduous shrub or small tree in the maple family (Sapindaceae) native to Northern China. It will grow in a variety of soil types, but prefers loamy soil, in a sunny, warm and dry location. Very adaptable plant with tolerance for a wide range of growing conditions, including partial shade, damp soils or some drought. Xanthoceras sorbifolium, commonly called yellowhorn, is a deciduous, flowering tree (20-25' tall) or multi-stemmed shrub (8-10' tall) which is a native of China.