Developer Ross Cortese brought the Golden Rain tree into LW

LW HISTORY

Once people move into Leisure World, they realize Golden Rain is a ubiquitous, but mysterious, moniker. There’s the Golden Rain Foundation Board; Golden Rain staff, Golden Rain Road—it’s everywhere.

LW longtimers know that the name “golden rain” originated from LW developer Ross Cortese, who also built Rossmoor and Leisure World, Laguna Hills, now known as Laguna Woods.

As history tells it, Cortese first saw the Golden Rain tree in New Orleans. After he learned that these trees could thrive in California, he ordered 2,700 sent to a nursery in Chino where they were nurtured until they were ready for Leisure World Seal Beach. At the right time, they were planted everywhere, becoming one of the enduring symbols of the community he was planning for senior citizens. The other was the globe.

The name Golden Rain was given to the corporation’s foundation, which still is at the center of government and management in Leisure World Seal Beach. The name was also given to Leisure World, Laguna Hills, which is now known as Laguna Woods Village.

The fast-growing, deciduous tree reaches about 30 feet in height. At maturity, it has a rounded crown, with a spread equal to or greater than the height. Its leaves, which give it a lacy appearance, turn yellow before falling.

The tree is most striking in the fall with its large clusters of bright yellow flowers that hang from the drooping branches, bringing to mind “golden rain.” These are followed by two-inch red-purple seed pods, which are equally dramatic.

In 2012, there were few of the original trees left, including one at Turtle Lake Golf Course, and a couple in Mutuals 5 and 15.