This large shrub to small tree has an upright red-brown trunk with erect spreading branches forming a rounded crown. The divided leaves have lanced-shaped dark green leaflets that turn yellow in autumn and the tiny cream flowers appear in clusters during spring.

Hardiness zones 8 to 10

Sapindus drummondiiis naturally found in southern USA and northern Mexico growing in a variety of habitats that include hillsides and valleys that are both dry and moist and tolerating higher altitudes.

It prefers a well-drained moderately fertile sandy-stony to clay soils with a pH 6.1-7.5. This tree prefers long hot summers tolerating dry conditions in an open sunny position and is mildly frost resistant.

Western Soapberry is a shrubby tree that is grown for its habit and resistance to drier conditions. It is planted in medium to large gardens as a shade tree or in groups to form a screen. It establishes in 2 to 3 years and is suitable for inland and coastal positions tolerating infertile dry soil. ID 1651

Note:
Care should be taken as this plant contains large quantities of saponin, which is a sever poison and gives the bark a bitter and astringent taste.

Sapindus(sa-PIN-dus) drummondii(drum-MON-dee-eye)

Sapindaceae (sap-in-DAY-see-ee)
Litchi, Maple, Horse Chestnut and Hop Bush Family