Styphnolobium japonicum
Japanese Pagoda Tree
Common names: Honey Tree, Pearl String Tree
Photo: Jean-Pol GRANDMONT · CC BY 3.0 · Source
This description was machine-translated.
Description
The Japanese Pagoda Tree (Styphnolobium japonicum) is a semi‑evergreen shrub to small tree in the Fabaceae family. It is often grown as a shrub and tolerates urban climates well. From August to September it produces loose, cream‑white flower spikes that appear later than most other trees, providing an important late nectar source for bees and bumblebees. After flowering, characteristic pearl‑string‑like constricted pods develop, giving the tree its second name. The feathery foliage stays fresh green into autumn and only turns yellowish late. All plant parts, especially the seeds, are mildly toxic; avoid feeding pods to children or pets.
Care instructions
Plant in full sun, warm location with well‑drained, not overly moist soil, ideally from late March (week 13). Water regularly during the first two to three years if dry, then the plant tolerates longer dry periods. Pruning is usually unnecessary; if you wish to maintain a shape, prune in winter during dormancy. The tree does not tolerate waterlogging; add a drainage layer of gravel or sand in heavy soils. Young plants benefit from winter protection in exposed sites; mature trees are winter hardy.
Soil & site
Soil pH
Soil type
well-drained, loamy, dry, lime-loving
Feeding
Light feeder
Pruning
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