Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Fabaceae

Genus:

Gleditsia

Species:

Gleditsia japonica

USDA Symbol:

GLJA4

Growth Characteristics

Height:

2500 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

High

Bloom Months:

may,jun

Bloom Colors:

greenish-yellow

Keystone Species Ranking

Caterpillar Keystone:

★★★★☆ Butterfly & moth species supported by this genus (NWF)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

birds, small mammals

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Fall Color:

yellow

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

rich, well-drained loamy soil

pH:

5.5 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

prefers fertile soils in native range

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:

Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days

Scarification:

Seed coat scarification required before sowing

Germination Time:

14–30 days

Notes:

Seeds require scarification (hot water or sanding) followed by cold stratification for 30-60 days.