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Japanese Pagodatree

Styphnolobium japonicum

Compiled by · Reviewed against the 2024 Front Range Tree Recommendation List, CSU Extension & Plant Select® · Updated 2026-07-03

Japanese Pagodatree (Styphnolobium japonicum) is a tree suited to the Colorado Front Range, rated "Recommended for Most Sites" on the 2024 Front Range Tree Recommendation List. It matures to about 40–50 ft tall and 40–50 ft wide, needs medium water, and prefers full sun. Canker.

Site fitRecommended for Most Sites
medium water40–50 ft tall and 40–50 ft wideDeer-resistant

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At a glance

Rating
Recommended for Most Sites
Botanical name
Styphnolobium japonicum
Variety / cultivar
Japanese Pagodatree, Millstone™
Type
Tree
Mature size
40–50 ft tall and 40–50 ft wide
Mature form
Rounded
Spacing / clearance
~50 ft of clearance
Hardiness zones
USDA 4–8
Growth rate
Moderate
Lifespan
Medium
Water needs
medium water
Sun
Best in full sun.
Colorado native
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Soil
clay, loam
Soil pH
6.0–8.2
Hail tolerance
moderate
Wind tolerance
moderate
Salt tolerance
moderate
Bloom color
cream, white
Pollinator value
high

Site factors to consider

Wildlife & ecology

Pollinator value
high
Deer
Generally deer-resistant

Frequently asked questions

Is Japanese Pagodatree good for the Colorado Front Range?
Yes, Japanese Pagodatree is a well-suited tree for Colorado's Front Range, rated "Recommended for Most Sites" on the 2024 Front Range Tree Recommendation List.
How big does Japanese Pagodatree get?
It matures to about 40–50 ft tall and 40–50 ft wide.
How much room does Japanese Pagodatree need?
Give Japanese Pagodatree about 50 ft of clearance from buildings, fences, and other trees so the mature canopy isn't crowded.
What shape does Japanese Pagodatree grow into?
Japanese Pagodatree typically grows into a broad, rounded crown, the classic shade-tree silhouette. This is the species' usual mature form, named cultivars (columnar, weeping, or compact selections) can differ, so check the specific cultivar.
Is Japanese Pagodatree hardy on the Front Range?
Japanese Pagodatree is hardy in USDA 4–8. The Colorado Front Range spans roughly USDA 4b–6a, so it is well within range. That said, it carries a cold-hardiness caution: The average low suits it fine; our real cold risk is the swings, late frosts, and intense winter sun, so wrap young trunks and give it shelter.
How much water does Japanese Pagodatree need?
It needs medium water once established.
How fast does Japanese Pagodatree grow?
Japanese Pagodatree is a moderate-growing tree. Growth rate depends on water and site conditions on the Front Range.
How long does Japanese Pagodatree live?
Japanese Pagodatree has a moderate lifespan for a Front Range tree. Actual lifespan varies with site, water, and care.
Is Japanese Pagodatree native to Colorado?
No. It is not a Colorado native, but it grows well on the Front Range.
Is Japanese Pagodatree deer-resistant?
Japanese Pagodatree is generally considered deer-resistant, though no plant is deer-proof when browse pressure is high.

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