Spanish cities are full of a tree that litters everything with flowers and fruit. There’s a reason it’s there

Spanish cities increasingly plant Styphnolobium japonicum, or the Japanese pagoda tree, because it withstands pollution, heat, drought, and compacted soils.

The tree is valued for its dense summer shade, which helps cool streets during hot months.

Its downsides are significant: heavy flower and fruit drop creates cleanup and maintenance work.

The species also supports pollinators, and despite its name, it is native to China, not Japan.