Soya
Glycine max
Last reviewed: June 2026

The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Soya as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–60" H × 6"–24" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, IL, MD, VT and 1 more states
Pollinators
bees
Soybean is an annual agricultural crop that produces clusters of small white or purple flowers followed by edible bean pods. This fast-growing plant has the typical three-leaflet pattern of legumes and can reach up to 5 feet tall in optimal conditions.
In an HOA neighborhood
Soya takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Looks like agricultural crop rather than ornamental plant
- May be prohibited by food gardening restrictions
- Can appear messy as pods mature and leaves yellow
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and other pollinators during summer blooming periods. As a nitrogen-fixing legume, it also improves soil health for other plants.
Common questions
- How much sun does Soya need?
- Soya grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Soya bloom?
- Soya blooms in July, August, and September.
- Where is Soya native?
- Soya (Glycine max) is native to AL, IL, MD, VT and 1 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Soya toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Soya as toxic to livestock.
- What pollinators does Soya attract?
- Soya draws bees.
- Is Soya HOA-friendly?
- Soya takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Soya? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz