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Mescal bean

Sophora secundiflora

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This flowering evergreen tree has pinnate leaves 4 to 6 inches long. Notched, mid-green leaflets grow in pairs. Pea-like, fragrant blue-violet flowers in terminal racemes appear in spring, maturing to bright red seeds.

Noteworthy CharacteristicsThis Texas and N. Mexico native is drought and heat tolerant. Usually a slow grower. Effective in mass plantings, as specimen plants, or in a shrub border. Needs long, hot summers to flower well.

CareGrow in moderately fertile, well-drained soil.

PropagationRoot semi-ripe cuttings with bottom heat in summer or autumn.

ProblemsTwig blight, Verticillium wilt, canker, and rust.

  • Genus : Sophora
  • Zones : 10, 11, 7, 8, 9
  • Plant Width : 15 to 30 feet
  • Plant Height : 30 feet or more
  • Moisture : Adaptable
  • Tolerance : Drought Tolerant
  • Characteristics : Fragrant Flowers, Showy Foliage, Showy Seed Heads
  • Light : Full Sun
  • Bloom Time : Spring
  • Plant Seasonal Interest : Spring Interest
  • Plant Type : Trees

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