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Description
Sophora secundiflora, commonly known as Texas mountain laurel, is an evergreen shrub or small tree that is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It belongs to the family Fabaceae and is highly valued for its fragrant, violet-blue flowers and glossy, leathery leaves. The plant can grow up to 10-15 feet tall and 10-20 feet wide and has a slow to moderate growth rate.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Sophora |
Appearance
The Texas mountain laurel has a dense, rounded canopy with a smooth, gray bark. Its leathery, dark green leaves are arranged in an alternate pattern and are made up of 7-9 leaflets. The plant produces clusters of fragrant flowers that bloom in late winter to early spring, which are followed by large, flat seed pods containing dark red seeds. The flowers are violet-blue in color and resemble grape-like clusters, with each cluster containing up to 50 flowers.
Care Guide
Sophora Secundiflora requires well-draining soil and regular watering, especially during its first year of growth. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. It is hardy to USDA zones 7 to 11 and can tolerate temperatures as low as 10 degrees Fahrenheit. Fertilize the plant in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer, and prune it back in the summer to maintain its shape and size.
Common Pests & Diseases
Texas mountain laurel is generally pest-free, but it can be susceptible to spider mites and scale insects. The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases like root rot and leaf spot. To prevent these issues, keep the plant well-watered and avoid overhead watering, which can promote fungal growth. If necessary, treat pests with insecticidal soap and fungal diseases with a fungicide.
Habitat
Sophora Secundiflora is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, where it grows in dry, rocky soils in areas with hot summers and mild winters. The plant is commonly found in desert, chaparral, and oak-juniper woodlands.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Texas mountain laurel?
A: Water the plant deeply once a week during its first year of growth, and then reduce watering to once every two to three weeks once the plant is established.
Q: Can I grow Texas mountain laurel in a container?
A: Yes, but the plant will require frequent watering and may not grow as large as it would in the ground.
Q: What is the best time to prune Texas mountain laurel?
A: Prune the plant back in the summer after it has finished blooming to maintain its shape and size.
Q: Can I grow Texas mountain laurel in a humid climate?
A: The plant prefers dry, hot climates and may not do well in areas with high humidity.
Related Plants
- Sophora japonica
- Sophora prostrata
- Sophora toromiro
References
- “Sophora secundiflora.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=Sose3. Accessed 20 April 2021.
- “Texas Mountain Laurel.” The Spruce, 28 August 2020, https://www.thespruce.com/texas-mountain-laurel-3269357. Accessed 20 April 2021.
