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Sophora tomentosa

Silver Bush

Fabaceae

Description:

Uncommon shrub to 6m tall along coast. All parts downy. Alternate, compound leaves to 30cm long. Yellow pea flowers 25mm long, on racemes to 15cm long, spring to summer. 15cm pods, constricted between the 6mm seeds.

Special Features:

  • Used as a hedge, screen, or ornamental feature due to its yellow pea-shaped flowers and unique, necklace-like seed pods.

  • Acts as a host plant for butterflies and moths, providing food and shelter for wildlife.

  • In traditional medicine, it is used for treating bilious disorders, dysentery, cholera, and fish stings.

  • Note that the seeds and roots contain alkaloids (cytisine) and are considered poisonous.

Natural Habitat:

Seacoast

Tree/Shrub Height:

Uncommon shrub to 6m tall

Aspect:

Full Sun

Soil/Conditions:

Well-drained

Flower Colour:

Yellow

Sophora tomentosa - Silver Bush

Gallery

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