Sapindus marginatus

Sapindus marginatus

Florida Soapberry

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Taxonomy

Common Names

Florida Soapberry

Context

nativeRegion

Southeastern United States, extending west to Texas and Oklahoma, and south into Florida.

usdaZones

Zone 8 to 11.

companionPlants

Quercus virginiana, Magnolia grandiflora, Liquidambar styraciflua

culturalUses

Berries contain natural saponins and have been used as soap nuts for cleaning purposes.

Care

LightPrefers full sun to partial shade.

WateringModerately drought-tolerant once established; water regularly during the first growing season.

SoilWell-draining soil; tolerates sandy, loamy, or clay soils.

FertilizerRarely needs fertilization; can apply balanced fertilizer in early spring if growth is poor.

HumidityAdaptable to moderate humidity levels.

TemperatureHardy in subtropical and warm temperate climates; tolerates mild frosts.

HabitDeciduous tree with a rounded crown.

Mature SizeTypically grows 20–40 feet (6–12 meters) tall and wide.

Growth RateModerate growth rate.

BloomingSmall, white to greenish flowers appear in late spring to summer.

DormancyEnters dormancy in winter, shedding leaves.

MethodsSeeds, Cuttings

DifficultyModerate

Best SeasonSeed sowing in spring; cuttings in early summer.

PruningMinimal; prune to shape or remove dead branches in winter or early spring.

RepottingNot typically grown in containers; transplant young trees as needed.

Pests & DiseasesFew serious pests or diseases; root rot possible if overwatered.

ToxicitySeeds contain saponins, mildly toxic if ingested.

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