Western Soapberry
(Sapindus drummondii)
Western Soapberry (Sapindus drummondii)
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© Laura Clark
CC BY 4.0
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© Laura Clark
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Copyright:
CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: © Laura Clark | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Uploader: lauramorganclark | Publisher: iNaturalist |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Sapindus drummondii, commonly known as Western Soapberry, is a deciduous tree native to a variety of habitats including open woodlands, riparian zones along streams, and occasionally in grasslands and scrub areas in the Southwestern United States. It typically grows to a height of 20-50 feet (6-15 meters) and a similar width, featuring a rounded canopy with pinnately compound leaves that turn yellow in the fall. The tree is notable for its panicles of small, greenish-white flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer, followed by translucent yellowish berries that persist into winter and are attractive to birds.
Western Soapberry is valued for its drought tolerance, making it suitable for xeriscaping and low-water-use gardens. It is also used as a shade tree in urban landscapes and can be planted as a windbreak or screen. The tree’s berries contain saponins, which can be used as a natural soap or detergent. While generally easy to maintain, it is susceptible to pests like scales and borers, and the berries can be messy if trees are planted near walkways or patios. It thrives in a range of soil types, provided they are well-drained, and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade.CC BY-SA 4.0
Western Soapberry is valued for its drought tolerance, making it suitable for xeriscaping and low-water-use gardens. It is also used as a shade tree in urban landscapes and can be planted as a windbreak or screen. The tree’s berries contain saponins, which can be used as a natural soap or detergent. While generally easy to maintain, it is susceptible to pests like scales and borers, and the berries can be messy if trees are planted near walkways or patios. It thrives in a range of soil types, provided they are well-drained, and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Tree
- Height: 20-50 feet
- Width: 20-50 feet
- Growth Rate: Slow
- Flower Color: Green, White
- Flowering Season: Spring
- Leaf Retention: Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Water: Low, Medium
- Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast
Common Uses
Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Street Planting
Natural Habitat
Open woodlands, riparian zones, grasslands, and scrub areas in the Southwestern United States
Other Names
Common Names:
Scientific Names: , Sapindus saponaria var. drummondii, Sapindus saponaria subsp. drummondii, Sapindus drummondii, Rhus florita,
GBIF Accepted Name: Sapindus saponaria subsp. drummondii (Hook. & Arn.) A.E.Murray