Soap Tree

Gymnocladus chinensis

Physical Characteristics

Gymnocladus chinensis is a deciduous Tree growing to 12 m (39ft 4in) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. It is in flower in April, and the seeds ripen in October. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required).. The plant is not self-fertile. It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Canopy; Secondary;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Seed Edible Uses: Seed - cooked[105, 177].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known