Sapindus saponaria: Florida Soapberry: ENH-740/ST582, 12/2014

Abstract

Florida Soapberry grows at a moderate rate to 30 to 40 feet tall. The pinnately compound, evergreen leaves are 12 inches long with each leaflet four inches long. Ten-inch-long panicles of small, white flowers appear during fall, winter, and spring but these are fairly inconspicuous. The fleshy fruits which follow are less than an inch-long, shiny, and orange/brown. The seeds inside are poisonous, a fact which should be considered in the tree's placement in the landscape, especially if children will be present. Original publication date November 1993.