A low growing native kowhai that can attain 1.5m, although often smaller. It has deep yellow flowers, almost hidden in the foliage, in winter, earlier than S. microphylla or S. tetraptera. Great border planting for textural contrast and the flowers.
Cultivation: Prefers sun and insists on a free draining but moist soil. Will linger and die if water-logged. Spraying may be needed for the kowhai moth caterpillar but the trees will recover without this, if in good health.
Propagation: Cuttings
S. 'Dragons Gold', mounding, compact form
Sophora prostrata
A low growing kowhai from caostal Malrborough and Canterbury. Dense mounds of tangeld branches concela typical yellow blossoms. The deep yellow flowersare smaller than S. microphylla or S. tetraptera, appearing intermittently. Good textural contrast in the border.
Cultivation: Prefers sun and insists on a free draining but moist soil. Will not thrive and can die if water-logged.
Propagation: Cuttings, seed
Sophora microphylla
The kowhai is a spectacular tree in spring when, almost leafless, it bursts into bright yellow flower. The flowers themselves are stunning (see our signature photo at top and the enlargment below). The South Island kowhai can be a little slow to flower but it is worth the wait.
Cultivation: Plant in a well-drained, reasonable soil. Wet feet will mean a disappointing or dead plant. A tangled juvenile plant it will grow to 5-7m. Water if very dry, especially when young.
Propagation: Seed or cuttings
Sophora microphylla
Sophora tetraptera
North Island kowahi. A taller growing kowhai easily distinguished from S. microphylla by its larger leaflets and absence of the divarticating juvenile form. Flowering younger this is a popular garden plants.
Cultivation: Considered more tender than S. microphylla until established. Plant in a well-drained, reasonable soil. Wet feet will mean a disappointing or dead plant. A tangled juvenile plant it will grow to 5-7m. Water if very dry, especially when young.
Propagation: Seed or cuttings
