Sophora Tetraptera
Sophora tetraptera
Common Names: Large-leaved Kōwhai, North Island Kōwhai
Family: Fabaceae
Origin: New Zealand
Plant Type: Evergreen to Semi-deciduous Tree
Overview:
Sophora tetraptera, commonly known as Large-leaved Kōwhai, is one of New Zealand’s most iconic native trees, celebrated for its brilliant golden-yellow flowers that appear in spring. With its graceful form and bird-attracting blooms, it’s a standout feature tree for both native and mixed landscapes.
Key Features:
Foliage: Soft green, pinnate leaves with larger leaflets than other kōwhai species
Flowers / Fruit: Abundant clusters of bright yellow, pendulous flowers in late winter to spring; followed by distinctive segmented seed pods
Form & Habit: Small to medium tree with an open, spreading canopy and slightly irregular branching
Growth Rate: Moderate
Cultural & Ecological Value: Highly valuable for native birds such as tūī, bellbirds, and kererū; an important nectar source
Mature Size:
| Attribute | Size |
|---|---|
| Height | 6–10m |
| Spread | 4–6m |
| Form | Spreading, small tree |
Ideal Growing Conditions:
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Light | Full sun |
| Water | Moderate; drought tolerant once established |
| Soil | Well-drained soils; tolerates a range from sandy to loam |
| pH Range | Neutral to slightly alkaline |
| Frost Tolerance | Hardy; tolerates moderate frost and wind |
Landscaping & Garden Uses:
-
Iconic specimen tree for gardens and lifestyle blocks
-
Ideal for attracting native birds
-
Suitable for street planting and larger landscapes
-
Great addition to restoration and native planting projects
Care & Maintenance:
Pruning: Minimal; shape when young if required
Watering: Water regularly during establishment; low maintenance once established
Feeding: Not generally required
Pests & Diseases: May be susceptible to kōwhai moth caterpillars; usually recovers well
Additional Tips:
Plant in a sunny, sheltered position for best flowering. Protect young trees from strong winds and frost until established.
Fun Fact / Botanical Insight:
Kōwhai flowers are a key seasonal signal in New Zealand, traditionally indicating the arrival of spring and the best time for planting kūmara.
Why Choose Sophora tetraptera?
For a classic New Zealand landscape tree that delivers stunning seasonal colour and supports native wildlife, Sophora tetraptera is hard to beat.
Pot Size: These are our standard size in 7cm square pots.
Pot Size:
Standard Pot = 7cm Square
Large Pot = 9cm Square
Extra Large Pot = 1.5L Round
Use this guide to see how many plants of your selected pot size fit into a half or full carton.
Standard Pot = 25 plants per Carton
Large Pot= 10 plants per Carton
Extra Large Pot = 5 plants per Carton
Urban- $16.55 per Carton Rural- $23.85 per Carton
Standard Pot = 50 plants per Carton
Large Pot= 25 plants per Carton
Extra Large Pot = 10 plants per Carton
Urban- $16.55 per Carton Rural- $23.85 per Carton
Product Size:
The photo next to the ruler shows an example of the plant for sale (cm's) to give an indication of the size. Please note that the photo is for reference only; the size and appearance of the plant may vary.
Please Note:
Shipping charge applies. Available for immediate dispatch only, while stocks last.
