Western soapberry
Sapindus drummondii
Family: Sapindaceae
What it is like
A tree. It grows 15 m high and spreads 9 m wide. It loses its leaves during the year. The crown is spreading. The leaves are divided into leaflets along the stalk. There are 18 leaflets. They are mid green. They turn golden yellow in autumn. The flowers are small and white and on branched stalks. These are at the ends of branches.
There are 13 Sapindus species.
Where it is found
It is a warm temperate plant. It grows in harsh dry climates. It suits hardiness zones 8-10.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia, Central America, Mexico, North America, USA
How it is used for food
CAUTION: The plants contain saponins.
Edible parts
Fruit
How it is grown
Its other names
Local names
Wild China tree