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Description
Styphnolobium Japonicum, commonly known as the Japanese pagoda tree or scholar tree, is a deciduous tree native to China and Korea. It belongs to the Fabaceae family and is often grown as an ornamental tree due to its beautiful foliage and fragrant flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Styphnolobium |
Appearance
The Japanese pagoda tree can grow up to 20 meters tall and has a broad, spreading crown. Its leaves are pinnate, with 7-17 leaflets that are ovate in shape and up to 10 cm long. The tree produces white or creamy-yellow flowers in late summer, which are borne in large, showy panicles up to 30 cm long. The flowers are followed by flat, brown seed pods that are up to 15 cm long and contain several seeds.
Care Guide
The Japanese pagoda tree prefers well-drained soil and full sun, although it can tolerate some shade. It requires regular watering, especially during hot, dry periods. Fertilize the tree in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. The tree is hardy to USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Japanese pagoda tree is generally resistant to pests and diseases, although it can be susceptible to leaf spot and canker. Aphids and scale insects may also infest the tree.
Habitat
The Japanese pagoda tree is native to China and Korea, where it grows in forests and along riverbanks. It has been widely cultivated as an ornamental tree in many parts of the world, including North America and Europe.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Japanese pagoda tree fast-growing?
A: Yes, the Japanese pagoda tree is a relatively fast-growing tree.
Q: Can the Japanese pagoda tree tolerate drought?
A: No, the Japanese pagoda tree requires regular watering and is not drought-tolerant.
Q: Does the Japanese pagoda tree produce fruit?
A: Yes, the Japanese pagoda tree produces flat, brown seed pods that contain several seeds.
Q: Is the Japanese pagoda tree toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the Japanese pagoda tree is toxic to pets and should not be planted in areas where pets may chew on its leaves or bark.
Related Plants
- Styphnolobium affine
- Styphnolobium burseroides
- Styphnolobium chinense
- Styphnolobium monteviridis
References
- “Styphnolobium japonicum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287711
- “Styphnolobium japonicum.” The Spruce. https://www.thespruce.com/japanese-pagoda-tree-3269680
- “Styphnolobium japonicum.” Plant Finder. https://www.plantfinder.com/plants/styphnolobium-japonicum-4928
