Sophora japonica
Sophora japonica
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Pl. 7CA5 — Sophora japonica
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IOverview
Overview
Sophora japonica, commonly known as Japanese pagoda tree, is a deciduous tree native to China's central and southern regions. This plant grows up to 20 meters in height and thrives in moist, well-drained soils with a pH between 6.5 and 7. It is adaptable to various soil types including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils. Known for its ornamental value, the tree features distinctive large, compound leaves and fragrant flowers that make it popular in gardens. Additionally, parts of the plant are edible, with both flowers and leaves being used. Hardy from zones 4 to 9, this versatile tree can be found in China's North-Central, South-Central, and Southeast regions.
Quick answers
What is Sophora japonica?
Sophora japonica, commonly known as Japanese pagoda tree, is a deciduous tree native to China's central and southern regions. This plant grows up to 20 meters in height and thrives in moist, well-drained soils with a pH between 6.5 and 7.
What is Sophora japonica used for?
Traditionally used for topical & skin, immune support. Each claim is evidence-rated — see Section II for full citations.
Best for
Top 2 evidence-ranked uses of Sophora japonica
Clinicaluses · safety · chemistry · dosagemedicinal profile
IIBenefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources
Benefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources- Sophora japonica has been traditionally used in Chinese medicine for topical applications to support skin health, particularly for conditions such as eczema and dermatitis. It is often prepared as a decoction or poultice.
The mechanism by which Sophora japonica supports skin health involves compounds like quercetin and kaempferol, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Sophora japonica has been traditionally used in Chinese medicine to support immune health, often prepared as a decoction. Its use is based on the belief that it can help maintain overall well-being during seasonal changes.
The mechanism by which Sophora japonica supports immune function is not fully characterised but may involve flavonoids and alkaloids with antioxidant properties.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Sophora japonica thrives in light to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soils that are light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in temperate regions from zones 4-9. To propagate, use seeds or cuttings. The tree can grow up to 20 meters tall and is known for its edible flowers and leaves. Ensure the soil pH remains between 6.5 and 7 for optimal growth.
Light
8/10
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-9
Habit
Tree
Mature size
20.0 m tall
Soil pH
6.5–7
For first-time growers
How to grow Sophora japonica for the first time
7steps
Start with planting Sophora japonica in a well-prepared soil and follow basic care instructions for success.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Sophora japonica sapling, garden gloves, a spade or trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late autumn when the soil is moist and temperatures are mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining with a pH of 6.5–7, and loosen it to a depth of about 30 cm (12 inches).
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young saplings into your prepared garden bed, ensuring they are planted at the same depth as in their container.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for any signs of stress or pests.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide regular watering, especially during dry spells, and mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter before new growth starts. Remove any dead or damaged branches for health and aesthetics.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersLeaves
Edible uses: Rutin, Tea
Other uses:DyeLumberNitrogen fixer
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
3 native · 27 introduced
Distribution
3 native · 27 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 3 native· 27 introduced
Europe5 regions
introduced (5)FranceHungaryRomaniaRussiaUkraine
Asia9 regions
native (1)China
introduced (8)IndiaIraqJapanPakistanSouth KoreaTurkmenistanUzbekistanYemen
Africa3 regions
introduced (3)EgyptKenyaZimbabwe
Broader regions
introduced:Czechoslovakia, Cape Provinces, Free State, Kirgizstan, New York, Northern Provinces, Tadzhikistan, Transcaucasus, West Himalaya
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family, common use cases, and growing requirements.
shared use cases
Different families, similar therapeutic role — good for comparing.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Health goals
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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- Citation
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