About
A large, deciduous shrub or small tree with slightly zig-zagging branches clothed with dark green leaves each comprising up to 31 small, oval to rounded leaflets. Clusters of bright yellow flowers in groups of three to seven are produced in spring and followed by woody fruits resembling strings of beads.
About the genus
Sophora are deciduous or evergreen trees and shrubs with pinnate leaves and pea-like flowers, sometimes fragrant, in racemes or panicles
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs, Trees
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height4-8 metres
Spread4-8 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Cottage and informal garden, City and courtyard gardens
Native toChile
ToxicityHarmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets (dogs): Harmful if eaten - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moderately fertile soil in full sun in a sheltered site
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by seed sown in a container in a cold frame as soon as ripe
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)