Sapindus saponaria
TAXONOMY
FamilySapindaceae
GenusSapindus
Zone9
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Sapindus saponaria, commonly known as the Wingleaf Soapberry, is a tree native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas. It is known for its soap-like qualities, as its fruit contains saponins that can be used as a natural detergent. The tree can grow up to 20 meters tall and has a spreading canopy. It undergoes a dormancy period during the cooler months.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Cholque
Cupania Saponarioides
Jaboncillo
Pacun
Soapberry
Soaptree
Wing-Leaf Soapberry
Sapindus amolli
Sapindus divaricatus
Sapindus inaequalis
Sapindus indica
Sapindus manatensis
Sapindus mauritianus
Sapindus oocarpus
Sapindus peruvianus
Sapindus peruvianus var. dombeyanus
Sapindus peruvianus var. meyenianus
Sapindus rigidus
Sapindus saponaria f. genuinus
Sapindus saponaria var. saponaria
Sapindus stenopterus
Sapindus thurstonii
Sapindus turczaninowii
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity60%
GDD5,475
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Sapindus saponaria thrives in bright, direct sunlight and prefers moderate temperatures. It requires a moderate level of humidity and should be watered when the soil is almost completely dry. The plant is relatively easy to care for but does require some attention to its light and water needs.Harvest
Sapindus saponaria, commonly known as the soapberry tree, is typically harvested for its fruit, which contains saponins used as a natural soap. The fruit is usually ready for harvest in the late summer to early fall when it turns from green to a yellowish-brown color. To harvest, the fruit can be handpicked or gently shaken from the tree. It is important to wear gloves during harvesting to avoid skin irritation from the saponins. After harvesting, the fruit should be dried in a well-ventilated area before use or storage.Soil
The Wingleaf Soapberry prefers well-draining loamy soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types but performs best in soil that is not too compacted. Ensure the soil has good drainage to prevent waterlogging.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 10-10-10. Fertilize the plant during the growing season, typically in spring and summer, to support its growth and development.Repotting
Repot the plant when it outgrows its current container, usually every 2-3 years. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage and fresh loamy soil. Repotting is best done in the spring.Propagation
Sapindus saponaria can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours before planting. Cuttings should be taken in the spring or early summer and rooted in a well-draining soil mix.Pruning
Prune the tree to maintain its shape and remove any dead or diseased branches. Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.Toxicity
The fruit and seeds of Sapindus saponaria are toxic if ingested by pets or humans. They contain saponins, which can cause gastrointestinal distress and other symptoms. Handle with care and keep out of reach of children and pets.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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