—western soapberry (Sapindus saponaria var. drummondii)—U.S. native tree

—Size: 10-50' tall by 10-20' wide

—Site: full sun to part shade

—USDA Hardiness Zones: 6-9

—To Propagate: Acid scarification for 45 min+ (45-90 min) (or mechanically abraded seed coat) followed by 60-90 days cold, moist stratification before planting. The seed has a hard impenetrable coat which becomes harder with time. Usually only seed planted immediately after an early harvest do not need their coating abraded. We have also found that 60 days of cold, moist stratification is the most straightforward method of propagation and provides acceptable results. Can also be planted without stratification but germination is delayed and more variable. Note: under all circumstances germination time is variable with this species, seeds sometimes germinating over a 2-3 month period after initial germination—don't give up.

Flowers are cream-colored in 10” clusters followed by black seeds encapsulated by translucent, yellow flesh. The fleshy parts are used as a soap substitute, containing alkaloid saponin—the seed coats contain ~37% saponin.

This is the most widely adapted native soapberry. In 2019 the US Postal Service issues four species of winter berries on postage stamps—this species of soapberry was one of them. The others—winterberry, juniper, and beautyberry—are species which we also offer.

Note: If you order more than one lot of one species of seeds, for example you place two orders of 100 seeds, or whatever variation is offered, we assume you want 200 seeds and your order will be sent in one seed packet.

Additionally, the seeds offered in this listing have been prepared for planting—i.e. the fruit wall of the seed has been removed.