Wingleaf soapberry

Sapindus marginatus

Physical Characteristics

Sapindus marginatus is a deciduous Tree growing to 15 m (49ft 3in) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8 and is frost tender. It is in leaf from April to October, in flower from May to June, and the seeds ripen in November. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

South-western N. America - Florida, Georgia and South Carolina.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Canopy;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit[105, 177]. The fruit is eaten by native North American Indians, though most white people find it repulsive[105].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

The seed is poisonous[1]. The fruit is poisonous[149].