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Description
Sophora Affinis, commonly known as the Texas Sophora or Eve’s Necklace, is a beautiful flowering plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. This deciduous tree is native to the southern United States, including Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. It can grow up to 30 feet tall and 20 feet wide, with a rounded canopy and a trunk that can reach up to 10 inches in diameter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Sophora |
Appearance
Sophora Affinis has beautiful compound leaves that are green and shiny, with seven to thirteen leaflets that are about 1-2 inches long. The tree produces fragrant, pinkish-white flowers in the spring, which are followed by long, bead-like seed pods that resemble a necklace. These seed pods turn from green to reddish-brown as they mature and can grow up to 8 inches long. The bark of the tree is gray-brown and slightly rough.
Care Guide
Sophora Affinis is relatively easy to care for and can be grown in a variety of soils, including clay and sandy soils. However, it prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the tree deeply once a week during the growing season, and once every two weeks during winter.
- Fertilization: Feed the tree with a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring.
- Soil: Plant the tree in well-draining soil that is slightly acidic.
- Sunlight: Plant the tree in full sun or partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Sophora Affinis is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sophora Affinis is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to some problems:
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and curling of the leaves. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Powdery Mildew: A fungal disease that appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves. Treat with a fungicide.
- Root Rot: This can occur in poorly-drained soil. Make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Sophora Affinis can be found in a variety of habitats, including prairies, meadows, and open woods. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought and heat.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Sophora Affinis a good tree for landscaping?
A: Yes, Sophora Affinis is a good tree for landscaping. Its beautiful flowers and seed pods make it a popular choice for gardens and parks.
Q: How fast does Sophora Affinis grow?
A: Sophora Affinis grows at a moderate pace, typically reaching a height of 20-30 feet in about 10-15 years.
Q: Is Sophora Affinis drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, Sophora Affinis is drought-tolerant once established. However, it will grow faster and produce more flowers with regular watering.
Q: Can Sophora Affinis be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Sophora Affinis can be grown in a container, but it will need a large pot and regular watering.
Related Plants
- Sophora Japonica
- Sophora Tetraptera
- Sophora Secundiflora
References
- “Sophora affinis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c331
- “Sophora affinis.” Texas A&M Forest Service. https://texasforestservice.tamu.edu/content.aspx?id=12800
- “Sophora affinis.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=SOAF2
