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sophora microphylla var fulvida

Sophora microphylla var fulvida, commonly known as Weeping Kowhai, is a beloved New Zealand native admired for its graceful appearance and clusters of golden-yellow flowers. This iconic small tree or large shrub brings a touch of elegance to gardens with its distinctive weeping habit and lush green foliage, making it a popular choice for both residential and public landscapes. Not only does it provide year-round visual interest, but it also supports native birdlife, attracting nectar-feeders such as tuis and bellbirds. For New Zealand gardeners looking to showcase native plants or enhance biodiversity, sophora microphylla var fulvida is an exceptional addition.

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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Features and Growth Habit

Sophora microphylla var fulvida stands out for its fine-textured leaves and elegant, arching branches. It typically grows to around 6 to 8 metres tall, creating a soft, weeping silhouette that looks stunning as a specimen tree or planted in groups. In spring, its vibrant flowers emerge in generous clusters, brightening the landscape long before many other natives begin to bloom. After flowering, decorative seed pods develop, adding further interest and offering food for birds.

Planting and Care

This variety thrives in free-draining soils and prefers a sunny to part-shade position. Once established, sophora microphylla var fulvida is drought-tolerant and copes well with light frosts. Pest and disease problems are minimal, especially with good air circulation. When planting, enrich the soil with organic matter and ensure young trees are watered regularly until their roots are well established. Pruning is not essential, but lightly shaping after flowering will maintain its signature form.

Landscape Uses

Sophora microphylla var fulvida can serve as a striking focal point in native planting schemes or mix well with both exotics and other natives. Its tendency to attract native birds makes it ideal for eco-conscious landscaping. Underplant with groundcovers or contrast against evergreen species for a layered, textural effect. Consider pairing with companion trees like Cupressocyparis Mellow Yellow, Magnolia St Mary (Southern Magnolia St Mary), or Malus Strathmore for diverse seasonal interest.

Related Kowhai Varieties

For those seeking variety in form and flower, New Zealand boasts a wonderful range of Sophora selections. Explore compact cultivars like Sophora 'Dragon's Gold' or the refined Sophora fulvida, which offer similar beauty in different sizes. Sophora 'Little Baby' brings manageable proportions for smaller spaces, while Sophora godleyi (Godleys Kowhai) and Sophora 'Goldie's Mantle' provide additional options for larger gardens.

Why Grow sophora microphylla var fulvida?

Native to New Zealand, sophora microphylla var fulvida is perfectly suited to our local conditions and garden styles. Its resilience, bird-attracting qualities, and timeless beauty make it an essential feature for modern and traditional gardens alike. For those expanding their native collections, this variety sits perfectly alongside rare exotics like Ficus auriculata (Roxburgh Fig) or giants such as Sequoiadendron giganteum (Sequoia gigantea Tree), offering both contrast and harmony in New Zealand’s diverse garden landscapes.


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Our garden favourites Chamaemelum nobile (Chamomile) and Dianella 'Little Jess' get lots of love, but don’t miss out on a few lesser-known delights: Gleditsia triacanthos Limelight (Honey Locust), Lavender 'Violet Intrigue', and Olive 'J5'.
–The Plant Company

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