Sophora japonica, commonly called Japanese pagoda tree or Chinese
scholar tree, is native to China and Korea, but not Japan. It is a medium to
large deciduous tree that typically matures to 50-75’ (less frequently to 100’)
tall with a broad rounded crown. It is generally cultivated for its attractive
compound foliage and fragrant late summer flowers. Pinnate leaves (to 10”
long), each with 7-17 oval, lustrous, dark green leaflets, remain attractive
throughout the growing season. Small, fragrant, pea-like, creamy white flowers
(each 1/2” long) bloom in late summer in sweeping terminal panicles to 12” long
and to 12” wide. Flowers fall to the ground around the tree after bloom
covering the ground with a blanket of white. Flowers give way to slender, 1- to
6-seeded, knobby, bean-like pods (to 3-8” long) that mature to brown in fall
and persist into winter. Although not native to Japan, the specific epithet and
common name seem to recognize the early use of the tree in Japan around
Buddhist temples. Best grown in rich, medium moisture, well-drained sandy loams
in full sun to part shade. Best in full sun. Tolerant of common city pollutants
and conditions. Once established, it is also tolerant of heat and some drought.
Growing Instructions
1. Scarify the seeds by nicking or sanding the seed coat.
2. Soak the seed in water for 12-24 hours.
3. The seeds like moist, well-drained soil. Prepare a mixture of half
potting soil and half sand, perlite or vermiculite. Put the soil in a pot.
Water the mixture so that it is moist but not wet.
4. Put the seeds on the soil.
5. Cover the seeds with a layer of soil.
6. Water the seeds.
7. Place the pots in an area in full sun or part shade.
8. When the seedlings are a few inches tall, they can be transplanted.
Charles (verified owner) –
So far so good!
Richard (verified owner) –
Good service.
Alan (verified owner) –
I was happy about the quick delivery and that the seeds actually sprouted within 7 days
Bryan (verified owner) –
I would absolutely recommend this seed to anyone looking to grow veggies this year. I decided to do starts this year and just three days after planting
David (verified owner) –
Great germination.