About
An evergreen shrub to 1.5m tall forming a dense mound of wiry, zig-zagging branches that bear leaves made up of tiny, oval leaflets. Clusters of pea-like yellow flowers are borne in spring.
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 hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCoastal, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Mediterranean climate plants
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 containers in a cold frame in spring, or by semi-ripe cuttings with bottom heat in summer or autumn
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)