Texas mountain laurel and Sophora secundiflora, also known as Chinese evergreen, are two beautiful and sweet-scented flowering shrubs native to the United States. Both are easy to cultivate and are excellent choices for creating a spectacular display of delicate and exotic blooms.
Etymology and Meaning
The Texas Mountain Laurel gets its name from its resemblance to the laurel tree, and the genus is named after the Greek goddess Aphrodite, “Morrya”. Sophora secundiflora is also called “Chinaberry” or “Chinese evergreen” due to its origin in the Far East. It is considered a symbol of strength and honor.
History, Mythology and Religious Significance
Texas Mountain Laurel has been traditionally used by Native American tribes as an offering in religious ceremonies and rituals. The sweet smoky scent of the flowers was believed to attract the gods and bring good luck. Sophora secundiflora was first imported to the United States in the 1790s and has since become a popular ornamental in Chinese gardens, symbolizing eternity and immortality.
Flower Varieties
The Texas Mountain Laurel can grow up to 25 feet tall and produce a colorful array of hanging clusters of fragrant blue to purple flowers. Sophora secundiflora is a smaller variety, reaching maximum heights of 10 to 20 feet, with white and pink flowers. Both varieties periodically produce seed pods that decorate the tree like Christmas ornaments.
How to Plant
Texas Mountain Laurel grows best in full sunlight and prefers acidic soils with a pH of 4.5 to 5.5, slightly alkaline soils with a pH of 7.5 to 8.5, and neutral soils with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5. As for Sophora secundiflora, it prefers sound, well-draining soil in sun or shade, with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. Both varieties require a minimum of 14 hours of sunlight per day, with ideal temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
How to Pot and Repot
When planting Texas Mountain Laurel and Sophora secundiflora it is important to place them in containers that have at least one or two drain holes to avoid overwatering. When repotting both varieties, it is important to use fresh, sterile potting soil. To ensure that the soil is not too dense, add perlite or vermiculite to improve drainage and aeration.
How to Prune
Texas Mountain Laurel and Sophora secundiflora can be pruned in fall or winter to maintain their shape. To reduce their size, wait until after flowering for best results. Pruning should be done judiciously, however, as it can reduce the plant’s vigor and bloom production. When pruning, always use sharp, clean pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant.
How to Propagate
Texas Mountain Laurel and Sophora secundiflora can be propagated by taking stem cuttings or layering. Stem cuttings should be taken in spring or summer and should have at least 2 inches of stem per cutting. The cuttings should then be soaked in water overnight before planting. Layering requires burying the stem or branch in sandy soil, and then waiting until it has rooted before cutting it away from the parent plant.
Common Pests and Diseases
Texas Mountain Laurel and Sophora secundiflora may be affected occasionally by common garden pests or plant diseases. Aphids, mealybugs, scale, and spider mites can attack the foliage, while root rot, mildew, and rust may occur if the plants are overwatered. To prevent issues, keep an eye out for signs of pests or disease and take action quickly using pesticides or fungicides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What kind of soil does Texas Mountain Laurel and Sophora secundiflora prefer?
A: Texas Mountain Laurels prefer acidic soils with a pH of 4.5 to 5.5, slightly alkaline soils with a pH of 7.5 to 8.5, and neutral soils with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5. As for Sophora secundiflora, it prefers sound, well-draining soil in sun or shade, with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5.
Q: When should I prune Texas Mountain Laurel and Sophora secundiflora?
A: Texas Mountain Laurel and Sophora secundiflora can be pruned in fall or winter to maintain their shape. To reduce their size, wait until after flowering for best results.
Q: In which USDA Zones are Texas Mountain Laurels and Sophora secundiflora hardy?
A: Texas Mountain Laurels are hardy in USDA Zones 8-11 and Sophora secundiflora is hardy in USDA Zones 5-9.
Table Fact Sheet
| Name | Details |
|---|---|
| Texas Mountain Laurel | Family: Fabaceae Plant Type: Evergreen shrub Mature Size: up to 25 feet Sun Exposure: Full sun Soil Type: Acidic soil Soil pH: 4.5 to 5.5 Bloom Time: Spring Flower Color: Purple to Blue Hardiness Zones : 8-11 Native Area: South-central United States |
| Sophora secundiflora | Family: Fabaceae Plant Type: Evergreen shrub Mature Size: up to 20 feet Sun Exposure: Partial shade to full sun Soil Type: Well-draining soil Soil pH: 5.5 to 6.5 Bloom Time: Spring Flower Color: White and Pink Hardiness Zones : 5-9 Native Area: Far East |
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