Sophora secundiflora

A small tree with 4 to 6 inch leaves divided into seven to nine leaflets. The flowers are violet-blue, very fragrant, and occur in clusters up to 8 inches long; they bloom from February to April. The pod is furry and contains up to eight red seeds. It grows slowly in cool-summer regions. It thrives in hot sun and well-drained, alkaline soil. The soil should be kept on the dryish side except when blooming. It is propagated from seeds, which should be nicked and soaked, or from greenwood cuttings and layers. The Sophora secundiflora seeds are highly toxic and contain the alkaloid cytisine. One seed, thouroughly chewed, is said to be enough to kill an adult.

Similar plants:

• Ormosia monosperma, Sophora monosperma (Necklace Tree, Bead Tree)
• Sophora japonica, Styphnolobium japonicum (Japanese Pagoda Tree, Scholar-tree)
• Sophora sp. (Kowhai)
• Sophora tomentosa (Yellow Necklace Pod, Silverbush)