Eve's Necklace

Eve's Necklace Overview

Scientific Name: Sophora affinis
Common Names: Eve's Necklace, Texas Sophora
Native to: Central and East Texas, Northern Mexico
Lighting Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Height: 15–30 feet
Width: 10–20 feet
Winter Look: Deciduous; bare branches in winter with a distinctive, spreading form
Seasonal Interest: Long, drooping clusters of pink, pea-like flowers in spring; bright green, fern-like foliage in summer; attractive seed pods in fall that resemble beads
Drought Tolerance: High; very drought-tolerant once established
Soil Requirements: Well-drained soil; adapts to sandy, loamy, and clay soils
pH Range: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 6–9
Deer Resistance: Moderate; generally avoided by deer
Attracts: Bees, butterflies, and other pollinators (flowers)
Toxicity: Toxic to humans and pets (seeds and pods contain poisonous alkaloids if ingested)
Potential Issues: Susceptible to occasional aphid infestations; requires well-drained soil to avoid root rot
Notes: Eve's Necklace is known for its unique, showy flowers and distinctive seed pods, which resemble necklaces of beads. It is often used as an ornamental tree or shrub in landscapes, especially in xeriscaping and drought-tolerant gardens. Due to its toxicity, care should be taken to keep it away from children and pets.