Sophora sericea
Sophora sericeafam. Fabaceae
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Pl. 3132 — Sophora sericea
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IOverview
Overview
Sophora sericea, commonly known as silky locoweed, is a perennial herb found in the wild across regions including Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, and various areas of Mexico. This plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, making it adaptable to different soil types such as light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). Known for its edible roots, which are part of the native range, silky locoweed is a valuable resource for those seeking sustainable food sources. One distinctive feature of this plant is its silvery, silky hairs that cover its stems and leaves, giving it a unique appearance.
Quick answers
What is Sophora sericea?
Sophora sericea, commonly known as silky locoweed, is a perennial herb found in the wild across regions including Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, and various areas of Mexico.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Sophora sericea thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is drought-tolerant but will also grow in moist conditions. This perennial plant, which reaches a height of 0.3 meters, requires minimal watering once established. Given its native range across the western United States and parts of Mexico, it is hardy in temperate regions. For propagation, gardeners can use root cuttings or seeds. The edible roots are a valuable part of this plant.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.3 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Sophora sericea for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple planting of Skip to gain experience in growing forbs/herbs.
- 1
What you'll need
A small pot, quality soil mix, and Skip seeds or young plants.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Skip during the spring when temperatures are mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a well-draining soil mix in a container that is at least 15 cm deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds just below the surface, or transplant young plants into your prepared container.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly to keep soil moist but not soggy. Place in a sunny spot.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and water only when the soil is dry. Fertilize lightly if needed.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune after flowering to encourage new growth and maintain shape.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, and not providing enough sunlight are common issues.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The root of Sophora sericea is edible and can be prepared in various ways. It is often used raw or cooked, though specific preparation methods are not detailed in the provided data. Skip
Other uses:Nitrogen fixer
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
11 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
11 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 11 native
Broader regions
native:Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, Mexico Northeast, Mexico Northwest, New Mexico, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Wyoming
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 (Fabaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Fabaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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