Contents
Description
Sophora Japonica Pendula, commonly known as the weeping Japanese pagoda tree, is a deciduous tree that is native to Eastern Asia. This ornamental plant is widely cultivated for its beautiful and unique weeping habit. It belongs to the family Fabaceae and is a popular choice for landscaping in gardens and parks.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Sophora |
Appearance
Sophora Japonica Pendula has a unique weeping habit that makes it stand out in any garden. It can grow up to 10 meters tall and 5 meters wide. The tree has a broad, spreading crown with a graceful, pendulous habit. The leaves are pinnate, with 9-17 leaflets that are dark green and glossy. The tree produces fragrant white flowers in late summer, which are followed by reddish-brown seed pods that persist through winter.
Care Guide
Sophora Japonica Pendula requires moderate care to thrive in the garden. Here are some care tips:- Water: The tree requires regular watering during the growing season. It prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged.- Fertilization: Fertilize the tree in spring with a balanced fertilizer to promote growth and flowering.- Soil: The tree prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic with a pH of 5.5-7.5.- Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not flower as well.- Hardiness Zones: Sophora Japonica Pendula is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sophora Japonica Pendula is generally pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to some pests and diseases, such as:- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves. Remove affected leaves and treat the tree with a fungicide.- Scale insects: These pests suck sap from the tree, causing yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Treat the tree with an insecticide.- Japanese beetle: These pests feed on the leaves, causing skeletonization. Remove the beetles by hand or treat the tree with an insecticide.
Habitat
Sophora Japonica Pendula is native to Eastern Asia, including China, Korea, and Japan. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and riverbanks. The tree is widely cultivated in gardens and parks around the world.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Sophora Japonica Pendula grow in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers, but it may not reach its full size.
Q: When is the best time to prune Sophora Japonica Pendula?
A: Prune the tree in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Q: How often should I fertilize Sophora Japonica Pendula?
A: Fertilize the tree once a year in spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Does Sophora Japonica Pendula attract wildlife?
A: Yes, the tree attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its fragrant flowers and seeds.
Related Plants
– Sophora Japonica- Sophora Microphylla- Sophora Tetraptera- Sophora Flavescens
References
– Dirr, M. A. (2019). Dirr’s encyclopedia of trees and shrubs. Timber Press.- Gilman, E. F. (1997). Trees for urban and suburban landscapes. Delmar Publishers.- Huxley, A., Griffiths, M., & Levy, M. (1992). The new Royal Horticultural Society dictionary of gardening. Macmillan Press.
