Sophora Japonica | Japanese Pagoda Tree

Japanese pagoda (also known as Styphnolobium Japonicum) is a large deciduous tree native to China but cultivated in Japan for hundreds of years. It is an upright, broad-spreading tree that grows as wide as it does tall, forming a lacy canopy of dark green, pinnate leaves. Fluffy pyramidal panicles, or clusters, of creamy white-green, fragrant flowers appear in summer, followed by green "pea pods". Leaves turn yellow in fall but are not considered consistently ornamental. Its younger branches remain olive-green through winter, adding seasonal interest.

Preferring full sun and well-drained soil, the Japanese pagoda also tolerates pollution, making its several cultivars a good choice for urban landscapes. Japanese pagoda tree makes a beautiful shade tree on large lawns or along city streets.

In some areas this tree has become very invasive, casting seeds into the landscape. Consult with regional authorities to learn if this tree is prohibited for garden use, or at a minimum, to be kept away from native ecological areas. Be aware that it is an aggressive plant in most landscapes.

Genus - Sophora
Species - Japonica
Common name - Japanese Pagoda Tree
Other names - Chinese Scholar Tree, Styphnolobium japonicum
Pre-Treatment - Not-required
Hardiness zones - 4 - 7
Height - 40'-75' / 12 - 23(60) m
Spread - 40'-75' / 12 - 23(60) m
Plant type - Tree
Vegetation type - Deciduous
Exposure - Full Sun
Growth rate - Fast
Soil PH - Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline
Soil type - Clay, loam, Sand, well-drained
Water requirements - Drought tolerant, the average water
Landscape uses - Shade Trees, Street Trees, Topiary / Bonsai / Espalier
Leaf / Flower color - Dark Green / White, Light Green
Plant growth rate - Fast