Soapberry Western

Description
Botanical Name: 
Sapindus drummondii

Single-stemmed or low-branched tree with a broad-oval to rounded crown.  Leaves are medium green turning a deep golden yellow in autumn. The leaves are alternate, compound, and even pinnate, 8 to 18 leaflets, each short stalked, obliquely lanceolate, 1 1/2" to 3 1/2" long, 1/2" to 1" wide, each leaflet slightly curved or sickle-shaped. Bark is shallowly furrowed and develops a patchwork of gray-brown to reddish brown.  The tree has a medium growth rate. The fruit is a translucent amber globe containing a hard seed.

Plant Characteristics
Plant Category: 
Trees-Shade & Ornamental
Name: 
Soapberry Western
Plant Type: 
Deciduous
Flower: 
Cone-shaped, creamy white, borne in dense, showy, terminal clusters
Mature Size: 
50' tall x 30' wide.
Water: 
Moderate to low, once established.
Exposure:: 
Full sun
Spacing: 
15'
Soil Type: 
Clay; loam; sand; slightly acidic; alkaline; well drained
Planting Time: 
Any season
Comments
Comments: 

Adaptable to varied soils with excellent autumn color.  Native peoples used the seeds as a source of soap