Sophora Microphylla
Sophora microphylla
(Kōwhai / Small-leaved Kōwhai)
Overview
Sophora microphylla is one of New Zealand’s iconic kōwhai species, renowned for its graceful form and spectacular flushes of golden-yellow flowers in early spring. This small-leaved variety begins life with a distinctive tangled juvenile stage before maturing into an elegant, spreading small tree that attracts tūī, bellbirds, and native pollinators in abundance.
Key Features
Foliage:
Fine, small, fern-like leaflets typical of kōwhai. Juvenile plants often display divaricating, twiggy growth before forming a softer, airy canopy with age.
Flowers / Fruit:
Brilliant golden-yellow tubular flowers appear in late winter to early spring, often before the leaves. Flowers are highly nectar-rich and a magnet for birds. Followed by classic jointed kōwhai seed pods.
Form & Habit:
Starts with a divaricating juvenile phase, then transitions into an open, spreading small tree with graceful arching branches.
Growth Rate:
Moderate to fast under good conditions.
Cultural & Ecological Value:
A taonga species in Aotearoa, culturally significant and exceptional for wildlife—especially nectar-feeding birds.
Mature Size
| Attribute | Size |
|---|---|
| Height | 6–8 m |
| Spread | 3–5 m |
| Form | Small, spreading tree |
Ideal Growing Conditions
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Light | Full sun for best flowering |
| Water | Moderate; drought-tolerant once established |
| Soil | Free-draining soils; tolerates clay if not waterlogged |
| pH Range | Neutral to slightly alkaline |
| Frost Tolerance | Very hardy when established; protect young plants in heavy frost regions |
Landscaping & Garden Uses
-
Signature specimen tree for NZ native gardens
-
Bird-attracting centrepiece near decks and lawns
-
Riparian plantings and restoration projects
-
Excellent for farm, lifestyle, or coastal gardens
-
Pairs beautifully with flax, olearia, hebes, and grasses
Care & Maintenance
Pruning:
Minimal. Light shaping after flowering if required. Avoid heavy pruning once mature.
Watering:
Water well for the first 1–2 years; becomes drought-hardy with age.
Feeding:
Not essential, but a slow-release native fertiliser in spring can boost young trees.
Pests & Diseases:
Generally hardy. Protect young plants from rabbits and hares. Occasional caterpillar activity is normal.
Additional Tips
Avoid planting in poorly drained or boggy soil. Kōwhai thrive with airflow and full sun. Juvenile stage can look “scruffy”—totally normal and part of its natural growth cycle.
Fun Fact / Botanical Insight
Kōwhai flowers are so iconic that the bright yellow colour kōwhai is an official colour name in te reo Māori. Many native birds time their feeding patterns around the kōwhai flowering season.
Why Choose Sophora microphylla?
Choose this species for its stunning golden blooms, incredible wildlife value, and classic NZ character—an essential native tree that brings life and colour to any garden.
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.
