sophora macrocarpa

Name: The Plant Company
Address: 284 Meeanee Road, Meeanee, Napier, 4112, New Zealand
Telephone: 0800 843 752
Price range: Contact Us
Rating: 4.8/5

Sophora macrocarpa, also known as Chilean Kowhai, is a striking evergreen or semi-evergreen shrub admired by garden enthusiasts for its elegant foliage and showy yellow flowers. Originally from central and southern Chile, this attractive species makes an excellent statement plant for New Zealand gardens, delivering both beauty and resilience. Whether you’re searching for a unique specimen shrub or a feature for wildlife-friendly planting schemes, Sophora macrocarpa brings year-round interest and is well-suited to a variety of local conditions.

Sophora 'Goldie's Mantle'

Sophora 'Goldies Mantle' is a striking New Zealand native kōwhai variety that produces an abundance of brilliant yellow flowers in spring. Its attractive foliage and manageable size make it perfect for a wide range of NZ gardens. The nectar rich flowers attract tūī, bellbirds, and kererū, bringing life and sound to your landscape.

Buy Sophora 'Goldie's Mantle'

From $515.35

Suited to regions: All regions

Plant type: Trees

Height: 6.00 m

Spread: 2.50 m

Flowering time: Summer

Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy, Wind

Garden uses: Parks, Ponds, Screening, Specimen

Garden styles: Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Native

Sophora prostrata 'Little Baby' small plant in a pot.

Sophora 'Little Baby'

Sophora 'Little Baby' is a delightful dwarf kōwhai variety that produces masses of golden yellow flowers in spring. With its compact size and dense foliage, it is perfect for smaller gardens, patios, or container growing. The flowers are rich in nectar, attracting tūī, bellbirds, and kererū, adding life and sound to the garden.

Buy Sophora 'Little Baby'

From $28.91

Suited to regions: All regions

Plant type: Shrubs

Height: 1.50 m

Spread: 1.30 m

Flowering time: Spring

Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy, Wind

Garden uses: Containers, Hedging, Living areas, Parks, Ponds, Pool areas, Specimen

Garden styles: Alpine, Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Formal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Native, Riparian, Rock

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You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Carissa, and Sophora, or related Categories - Evergreen Shrubs, and Evergreen Trees.

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Why Choose Sophora macrocarpa?

Sophora macrocarpa stands out for its distinctive finely cut foliage, which gives a soft, feathery appearance often compared to the New Zealand native kowhai, Sophora microphylla, but with a more delicate structure. In late winter to spring, its pendulous, bright yellow tubular flowers emerge, attracting native birds and pollinators. This plant typically grows to around 3 to 5 metres, making it ideal for small or medium-sized gardens, and is tolerant of a range of positions, including coastal and wind-exposed sites. With moderate drought resistance and adaptability to different soils, Sophora macrocarpa is a versatile choice for gardeners looking to introduce structure and vibrant seasonal flowering.

Planting and Care Tips

For best results, plant Sophora macrocarpa in well-draining soil with full sun to partial shade. While this species can tolerate dry spells once established, it benefits from regular watering during the first couple of years and in extended dry periods. Mulching helps retain moisture and suppress weeds, and an annual application of a balanced fertiliser in spring encourages healthy growth and flowering. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage a bushier habit. Like other members of the pea family, Sophora macrocarpa is relatively pest and disease resistant.

Styling Sophora macrocarpa in Your Garden

Sophora macrocarpa suits a variety of garden styles, from native-inspired landscapes to cottage and wildlife-friendly designs. Plant as a feature in mixed borders or combine with complementary textures provided by low-maintenance groundcovers such as Cupressus Greenstead Magnificent. For a striking foliage contrast, consider pairing with gold-toned conifers like Cupressus macrocarpa Fine Gold or the elegant, pyramidal silhouette of Cupressus Golden Pyramid. If you’re aiming for an evergreen theme, mix in robust shrubs such as Carissa Desert Star (Carissa).

Related Plants to Consider

If you appreciate the resilience and ornamental value of Sophora macrocarpa, you may also enjoy exploring other conifers and shrubs well-suited to New Zealand gardens. Consider the golden-hued Cupressus Brunniana Aurea (Cupressus macrocarpa Brunniana Aurea ) for sheltered and exposed areas, or layer your plantings with eye-catching evergreens for year-round appeal.

Enhance Your Garden with Sophora macrocarpa

Bringing together graceful foliage, vibrant spring blooms, and excellent adaptability, Sophora macrocarpa is a rewarding addition to any garden. Whether acting as a standout specimen or woven into diverse mixed plantings, this versatile shrub offers long-term value for New Zealand gardeners seeking both beauty and ease of care. Discover the potential of Sophora macrocarpa and related selections through our diverse range, and build a flourishing, bird-friendly landscape in your own backyard.

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.