Contents
Description
Sophora Prostrata, commonly known as the Chinese Scholar tree or Littleleaf Sophora, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Fabaceae family. Native to East Asia, particularly China and Korea, it can grow up to a height of 1-1.5 meters and a spread of 1.5-2 meters. It has a slow growth rate and a lifespan of 10-20 years.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Sophora |
Appearance
Sophora Prostrata has a unique appearance with its small, oval-shaped leaves that are a bright green color. The leaves are usually 2-3 cm long and 1-2 cm wide. The plant produces yellow flowers that bloom from May to June, and the fruit is a small pod that contains seeds.
Care Guide
Sophora Prostrata is a low-maintenance plant and is easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you take care of your Chinese Scholar tree:
Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but make sure the soil is well-drained to prevent the roots from rotting.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring or early summer with a slow-release fertilizer.
Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause the plant to become leggy and weak.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sophora Prostrata is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew and root rot, if the soil is too moist. Aphids and spider mites may also infest the plant, but they can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Sophora Prostrata is native to East Asia, particularly China and Korea. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and rocky slopes. It can tolerate a range of soil types and is often found growing in disturbed areas such as roadsides and abandoned fields.
Question and Answer
Q. Can Sophora Prostrata grow in pots?
A. Yes, it can grow in pots as long as the pot is large enough to accommodate its roots and the soil is well-drained.
Q. Is Sophora Prostrata toxic to pets?
A. The plant is not toxic to pets.
Q. How often should I fertilize my Sophora Prostrata?
A. Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring or early summer with a slow-release fertilizer.
Q. How do I prune my Sophora Prostrata?
A. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches. You can also prune it to maintain its shape.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Sophora Prostrata:
- Sophora Japonica
- Sophora Tetraptera
- Sophora Flavescens
References
- “Sophora prostrata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c472.
- “Sophora prostrata.” Plants For A Future, www.pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Sophora+prostrata.
- “Chinese Scholar Tree.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/chinese-scholar-tree-growing-profile-3269319.
