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sophora microphylla for sale

Discover the unique beauty of New Zealand’s native flora with Sophora microphylla for sale at our nursery. Known as the Weeping Kowhai, this elegant tree is treasured for its graceful, pendulous branches and vibrant clusters of yellow, nectar-rich flowers that burst into colour each spring. Sophora microphylla is an iconic choice for gardens and landscapes across Aotearoa, celebrated for attracting tūī and bellbirds while lending a spectacular native character to your outdoor space.

Sophora microphylla (Small Leaved Kōwhai)

5 from 3 customers

Small Leaved Kōwhai, South Island Kōwhai, Weeping Kōwhai

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.

Sophora microphylla specimen tree covered in yellow flowers.
  • 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
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Sophora microphylla (Small Leaved Kōwhai)

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Why Choose Sophora microphylla?

Sophora microphylla, or Weeping Kowhai, is admired for its ornamental form and hardiness. Unlike its cousin, Sophora tetraptera, the Weeping Kowhai features smaller, finely divided leaves and a stunning, arching branch shape, making it perfect as a feature tree, in native revegetation projects, or on the edge of ponds and driveways. Highly adaptable, it flourishes in various soil types, shows excellent wind tolerance, and copes well with coastal conditions—an ideal fit for New Zealand environments.

Sophora microphylla Flowers and Benefits

From late winter into early spring, Sophora microphylla bursts into golden bloom, drawing in native birds such as tūī, bellbirds, and kererū. The dazzling, pendulous flowers not only add drama to your garden, but also provide an essential food source for wildlife. This low-maintenance tree matures up to 8 metres but can be pruned to suit smaller spaces. Its evergreen foliage and graceful shape give year-round interest, making it a favourite in home gardens, schools, and public plantings.

Planting and Care

Sophora microphylla is remarkably tough and easy to grow. For best results, plant in full sun or light shade and provide well-drained soil. Once established, it is drought-tolerant, requiring minimal maintenance apart from occasional pruning to shape. Given its preference for open spaces, it’s wise to allow room for its weeping canopy to spread. Mulching around the base can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds in the early years.

Create a Native Collection

Pair your Sophora microphylla with other striking natives and ornamental trees for enhanced biodiversity and year-round appeal. Consider exploring our selections such as Sophora 'Dragon's Gold'—a compact Kowhai option, Sophora godleyi (Godleys Kowhai) for its distinctive, weeping form, or Sophora 'Goldie's Mantle' with its abundant golden flowers. For those seeking subtle foliage contrasts or companion planting, Weinmannia silvicola (Towai) and Acer Brandywine (Brandywine Maple) make excellent partners.

If you’re intrigued by different Sophora species, browse Sophora fulvida and the delightful Sophora 'Little Baby' for unique characteristics and growth habits.

Buy Sophora microphylla Online

We offer healthy, potted Sophora microphylla for sale ready to thrive in your garden. Whether you’re establishing a native haven, supporting local birdlife, or seeking a showstopping focal point, Weeping Kowhai is a versatile and rewarding choice. Start your native planting journey today and enjoy a living piece of New Zealand’s natural heritage for generations to come. Order online and transform your outdoor space with the enduring beauty of Sophora microphylla.


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.

Gardenia 'Veitchii' and Buxus sempervirens (Boxwood) have stood the test of time, but new generations of gardeners are discovering Metrosideros 'Moonlight', Tulbaghia variegata 'Tricolor' (Society Garlic), and Fraxinus griffithii.
–The Plant Company

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