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miniature kowhai tree

If you’re looking for a stunning native feature in a smaller garden space, the miniature kowhai tree offers all the charm of New Zealand’s beloved kowhai in a more compact form. With its delicate, feathery foliage and iconic golden-yellow flowers, a miniature kowhai tree is the perfect solution for those wanting native beauty in courtyards, containers, or small urban sections. These trees are not only visually appealing but also draw native birds such as Tui and Bellbird, who are attracted to their nectar-rich blooms.

Sophora microphylla specimen tree covered in yellow flowers.

Sophora microphylla (Small Leaved Kōwhai)

5 from 3 customers

Sophora microphylla, commonly known as Weeping Kowhai, is a treasured New Zealand native tree admired for its graceful, drooping branches and masses of golden yellow flowers in spring. This semi-evergreen species is highly attractive to native birds such as tui and bellbirds, which feed on its nectar. Elegant, hardy, and versatile, the Weeping Kowhai is a stunning addition to both gardens and larger landscapes.

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 10.00 m
Spread: 6.00 m
Flowering time: Spring
Tolerances: Hardy, Wet, Wind
Garden uses: Parks, Ponds, Screening, Specimen
Garden styles: Alpine, Backyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Native
Sophora longicarinata yellow flowers.

Sophora longicarinata (Limestone Kowhai)

Sophora longicarinata is a rare and beautiful NZ native tree belonging to the kowhai family. This evergreen to semi deciduous species is admired for its finely divided leaves and masses of golden yellow flowers that appear in spring, attracting native birds such as tui and bellbirds. Naturally found in limited areas of NZ, it makes a stunning specimen tree, adding both ecological value and ornamental appeal to gardens, lifestyle blocks, and revegetation projects.

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type: Trees
Height: 5.00 m
Spread: 3.00 m
Flowering time: Spring
Tolerances: Hardy
Garden uses: Living areas, Parks, Ponds, Screening, Specimen
Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Native
Sophora 'Goldies Mantle' yellow flowers and green foliage.

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Sophora 'Goldies Mantle' is a striking New Zealand native kōwhai variety that produces an abundance of brilliant yellow flowers in spring. Its...

From$457.29
A Sophora chathamica tree growing in a garden with green foliage.

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Sophora chathamica (Coastal Kōwhai) is a stunning New Zealand native tree known for its masses of bright yellow flowers that appear in early spring...

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A Sophora godleyi specimen tree covered in yellow flowers.

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Sophora godleyi is a magnificent New Zealand native tree valued for its graceful weeping branches and bright yellow flowers that appear in spring...

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Sophora fulvida tree with masses of yellow flowers.

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Sophora fulvida (Southern Kōwhai) is a beautiful New Zealand native tree admired for its golden yellow flowers and fine green foliage. Flowering in...

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Sophora tetraptera (Large-leaved Kowhai) yellow flowers.

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Sophora microphylla (Small Leaved Kōwhai)

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Search miniature kowhai tree

What Is a Miniature Kowhai Tree?

A miniature kowhai tree is a cultivated or naturally smaller variety of the classic Sophora species, chosen for its compact growth habit without sacrificing showy spring flowers or conservation value. While the traditional kowhai can reach impressive heights, a miniature kowhai tree might mature at around 2–3 metres, making it manageable for small gardens or patio pots. Some of the best options for small gardens include the naturally small-leaved Sophora microphylla (Small Leaved Kōwhai) and the even more compact, bushy Sophora molloyi (Cook Strait Kowhai).

Top Varieties for Small Spaces

There are several varieties particularly well-suited if you’re searching for a miniature kowhai tree:

Planting and Care Tips

Miniature kowhai trees thrive in full sun and well-drained soil. When planting, choose a spot sheltered from severe winds, and water your young tree regularly as it establishes. As native plants, miniature kowhai require minimal fertiliser and seldom suffer from pests or diseases. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a tidy, compact form.

For gardeners with limited space, a miniature kowhai tree can be grown in large containers. This adds versatility, allowing you to move and reposition your display and enjoy those iconic yellow blooms up close.

Why Choose a Miniature Kowhai Tree?

Miniature kowhai not only bring vibrant native colour but also support local wildlife. Their nectar-rich flowers are critical for native birds and pollinators each spring. Growing a miniature kowhai tree is a sustainable choice for a New Zealand garden, blending lush ornamental beauty with ecological value.

Explore our range, from Sophora microphylla (Small Leaved Kōwhai) to Sophora molloyi (Cook Strait Kowhai), and find the perfect miniature kowhai tree to fit your garden and support native biodiversity.


Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

–The Plant Company

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