Sophora japonica 'Columnaris': Columnar Scholar Tree: ENH-751/ST593, 2/2014

Abstract

This cultivar of Pagoda Tree probably has a height of about 40 feet and spread of 15 to 20 feet, forming a fine-textured, upright canopy. It has a rapid growth rate and tolerates polluted city conditions, heat, and drought. The tree prefers a sunny, open location on any light soil. The very showy, greenish-white to yellow flowers are produced in mid to late summer and provide an airy feel to the tree for several weeks. A yellow dye can be made by boiling the dried flowers and buds in water. The young green twigs turn a dark grey with age. It has been reported that the species must be about 10-years-old to bloom, but the cultivar `Regent' apparently blooms at an earlier age. Original publication date November 1993.