Sophora japonica / Sofora del Giappone

Origin: China, Korea

Botanical characteristics: It is a medium-sized deciduous tree, reaching 15-20 meters in height. It has a large rounded crown characterized by dark green bark with white lenticels on the stem and the branches in young plants, which turns later dark grey. Leaves are imparipinnate, up to 25 cm long, composed of lanceolate dark green leaves on the upper side and silver and sericeous below.
In autumn they turn yellow. In July-August there is an abundant and showy blooming of very fragrant creamy-white flowers grouped in clusters up to 30 cm. Fruits: rounded green vegetables.

Agronomic and environmental characteristics: It has no special soil needs. It has an high resistance to drought, salinity and air pollution.

Use: It is a very characteristic plant, rarely used that deserves a more frequent use. It is used as isolated species in large-sized parks and gardens. It is suitable for urban green areas and tree-lined avenues. It fits in industrial areas, too.