Sophora flavescens


Sophora flavescens, the shrubby sophora, is a species of plant in the genus Sophora of the family Fabaceae. This genus contains about 52 species, nineteen varieties, and seven forms that are widely distributed in Asia, Oceania, and the Pacific islands. About fifteen of these species have a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicines.

Growth and cultivation

Sophora flavescens is an evergreen slow growing shrub growing to by. It is hardy to and to US zone 6. The plant prefers light, medium and heavy soils and requires well-drained soil. The plant prefers acid, neutral and basic soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It requires moist soil. Like many other species in the family Fabaceae, this species can fix nitrogen.

Chemistry

Chemical compounds isolated from S. flavescens include:
Toxic effects from use of the root may include nausea, dizziness, vomiting, constipation, spasms, disturbance of speech, irregular breathing, respiratory failure and death.