Upright Pagoda tree Syn. Styphnolobium japonicum. The upright Pagoda Tree is graceful in appearance, popular with universities and colleges throughout the world, where it is sometimes referred to as the Japanese scholar tree. Sophora Japonica Princeton Upright is best planted in drier soil along a pathway or even as a street tree. It has beautiful golden Autumn foliage and attractive upright white flowers, and interesting peapod-like fruit. Site: Requires shelterSoil: Prefers well drained, tolerates excessively dry soilPosition: Full sun Season of Interest: Summer flowers, Autumn foliage, Attractive formHardiness: Fully hardyHeight: 40ft (12m) Spread: 16ft (5m)