Japanese Sophora (Styphnolobium japonicum)

Traditional Science and Botany:

• Japanese Sophora (Styphnolobium japonicum) is a deciduous tree belonging to the Fabaceae (Legume) family.
• Native to East Asia, it is widely cultivated as an ornamental tree with ecological value.
• It can reach heights of 15–25 meters, with a broad, rounded crown and compound leaves.

Characteristics:

• The Sophora grows at a moderate rate and is highly resilient, adapting well to hot and dry conditions.
• It has strong resistance to air pollution, dust, and gases.
• As a leguminous tree, it enriches the soil with nitrogen, improving soil quality.

Uses:

• Widely used in urban landscaping and park design.
• Also used for planting along streets, squares, and public spaces.
• Its flowering is decorative and important for beekeeping.

Relevance for Yerevan and Armenia:

• Japanese Sophora is suitable for urban landscaping and can be planted within Yerevan and other cities.
• Well adapted to Yerevan’s climate, tolerates heat and urban air pollution.
• Effective in Armenia as a shade-providing tree that improves air quality in urban environments.