394 
DECIDUOUS TREES. 
is dark green. The tree is believed to be hardy, and, as far as we 
can learn, is not subject to the attacks of the borer which destroys 
our locust trees. Loudon says of it: “None of the arboreous 
leguminacae are equal to this tree in beauty of foliage and bark. 
Its flowers (which are cream-colored and appear in August), when 
they are produced, are also in large terminal-compound spikes, and 
very conspicuous, though smaller than those of the Robinia viscosa. 
One remarkable property in the sophora is, that the very hottest 
and driest seasons do not pale the foliage, or cause it to drop off.” 
The peculiar tone of its foliage is a deep velvety green, that is 
unequalled by any deciduous tree we know of. It requires a thor¬ 
oughly drained soil. The leaves are among the last to surrender 
to autumn frosts, and turn to a yellowish-green before they fall. 
The bark exhales a strong odor when cut, and is said to produce 
colic on those who are engaged in pruning the tree. 
The Weeping Japan Sophora, S.j. pendula, is the finest of 
small pendulous trees when grafted on a thrifty stock at a height 
of seven to twelve feet from the 
ground. Its young branches are 
green and somewhat angular or 
crooked, so that in winter the 
tree has a knotted and curious 
look. Its deep velvety-green 
color, delicately formed acacia¬ 
like foliage, and the bold breaks 
of light and shade in its head, 
altogether make so rich an effect 
as to attract the attention of all observers. It is, at the same time, 
symmetrical and picturesque, while the Kilmarnock willow is mo¬ 
notonously symmetrical or lumpish. It seems to be difficult to 
propagate this variety. Specimens well started, standard height, 
still command a high price at the nurseries. Fig. 124 is a 
representation of the prettiest specimen of the weeping Japan 
sophora we have seen, growing in the deep rich sandy loam of 
Parsons’ specimen grounds at Flushing, L. I. It is grafted but 
seven feet from the ground, and the branches, spreading first with 
Fig. 124.. 
