Drought stress affects the growth and eco-physiological properties of Sophora japonica seedlings. The study tested different levels of drought stress on potted seedlings and found that as drought stress increased, the growth of the seedlings was restricted. The seedlings showed decreased leaf water content, photosynthesis rate, and chlorophyll content, while water use efficiency and proline content increased. The decrease in photosynthesis was due to both stomatal and non-stomatal factors, with severe stress primarily affecting non-stomatal factors.