About
The flowers are mid-yellow, bell-shaped and hang in clusters in late winter and early spring. An evergreen shrub not reaching more than 2m in height. The leaves are made up of many pairs of tiny dark green, oval leaflets.
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 moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs, Trees
HabitSpreading branched, Bushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, 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 moist, well-drained soil in full sun. Good for mild, coastal positions. Tolerates dry conditions once established
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagation by seed, fresh as soon as ripe. Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings in summer or autumn, with bottom heat
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)