Sophora Chrysophylla

Description

Sophora Chrysophylla is a flowering evergreen shrub that is native to the Pacific Northwest region of North America. It is commonly known as the Golden Pea or Mānele. The plant can grow up to 20 feet tall and has a spreading habit with a rounded crown. The leaves are pinnate and have a bright golden color that fades to green as the season progresses. The flowers are small and yellow, and they bloom in clusters during late spring and early summer. The fruit is a pod that contains several seeds.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Golden Pea has a striking appearance due to its bright golden leaves. The leaves are pinnate and have 7-15 leaflets that are ovate in shape. They can grow up to 5 inches long and 2 inches wide. The plant also has small yellow flowers that bloom in clusters during late spring and early summer. The fruit is a pod that is 2-3 inches long and contains several seeds.

Care Guide

The Golden Pea is a low-maintenance plant that can tolerate a wide range of soil types and pH levels. It can also tolerate drought and salt spray. However, it grows best in well-draining soil with regular watering and fertilization. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.

Water

The Golden Pea requires regular watering during the growing season, especially during hot and dry periods. However, it can tolerate some drought once established.

Fertilization

The plant benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. It is also important to avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to excessive vegetative growth and reduced flowering.

Soil

The Golden Pea prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.

Sunlight

The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but excessive shade can lead to reduced flowering.

Hardiness Zones

The Golden Pea is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Golden Pea is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is poorly drained or over-watered. It can also be affected by spider mites, aphids, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with regular monitoring and insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.

Habitat

The Golden Pea is native to the Pacific Northwest region of North America, specifically in the coastal areas of California, Oregon, and Washington. It grows in a variety of habitats, including coastal bluffs, rocky slopes, and open forests.

Question and Answer

Q: Is the Golden Pea a fast-growing plant?
A: The Golden Pea is a moderate to slow-growing plant.

Q: Can the Golden Pea tolerate salt spray?
A: Yes, the Golden Pea can tolerate salt spray.

Q: Does the Golden Pea require pruning?
A: The Golden Pea does not require regular pruning, but it can be pruned to control its size and shape.

Q: Does the Golden Pea attract wildlife?
A: The Golden Pea’s flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Related Plants

• Sophora Toromiro
• Sophora Tetraptera
• Sophora Microphylla
• Sophora Prostrata

References

• “Sophora chrysophylla.” Pacific Northwest Plant Database. University of Washington, n.d. Web. 22 June 2021.
• “Sophora chrysophylla.” Oregon State University Landscape Plants. Oregon State University, n.d. Web. 22 June 2021.
• “Sophora chrysophylla.” Calflora: Information on California Plants for Education, Research and Conservation. Calflora, n.d. Web. 22 June 2021.