Styphnolobium japonicum

Sophora japonica JPG2Aa

Beans cut of Chinese Scholar Tree

Styphnolobium japonicum, commonly known as the Japanese pagoda tree or Chinese scholar tree, is a species of tree in the Fabaceae family. It is native to China and Korea, but it has been widely planted and naturalized in many other regions, including Japan, Europe, and North America.

Description

Styphnolobium japonicum is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 25 meters in height. It has a broad, rounded crown and smooth, grayish bark that becomes furrowed with age. The leaves are pinnate, with 7-17 leaflets that are ovate to lanceolate in shape. The tree produces fragrant, creamy-white flowers in late summer, which are arranged in large, terminal panicles. The fruit is a legume, which is green when young and turns brown as it matures.

Taxonomy

Styphnolobium japonicum was previously classified under the genus Sophora, but it has since been reclassified into the genus Styphnolobium. The species was first described by Carl Linnaeus in 1753.

Habitat and Distribution

The Japanese pagoda tree is adaptable to a variety of soil types and conditions, but it prefers well-drained soils and full sun. It is commonly found in urban areas, parks, and gardens due to its ornamental value and tolerance to pollution.

Uses

Styphnolobium japonicum is widely cultivated as an ornamental tree for its attractive foliage and flowers. In traditional Chinese medicine, various parts of the tree, including the flowers and seeds, are used for their purported medicinal properties. The tree is also valued for its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, improving soil fertility.

Cultivation

The tree is relatively easy to grow and requires minimal maintenance. It is propagated by seeds or cuttings. Pruning is recommended to maintain its shape and remove any dead or diseased branches.

Pests and Diseases

Styphnolobium japonicum is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be affected by root rot if grown in poorly drained soils. It may also be susceptible to aphids and scale insects.

Related Pages

• Fabaceae
• Carl Linnaeus
• Chinese medicine
• Nitrogen fixation