Call us: 0800 843 752Free shipping for orders $150 or over
Gift Vouchers

sophora plant

The Sophora plant, celebrated across New Zealand for its vibrant yellow blooms and impressive adaptability, is a must-have for gardeners seeking native charm and wildlife-friendly features. Often known as kōwhai, Sophora varieties bring a splash of colour in spring and attract nectar-loving birds, especially tui and bellbirds. Whether you’re looking to plant a striking specimen tree, a decorative shrub, or seeking a hardy addition for a coastal or urban garden, the Sophora plant delivers both beauty and resilience.

Sophora molloyi 'Dragons Gold' small trees in full flower at The Plant Company.

Sophora 'Dragon's Gold'

5 from 6 customers

Sophora 'Dragons Gold' is a highly ornamental NZ native shrub renowned for its early and vibrant golden yellow flowers. Blooming in late winter and early spring, this stunning kowhai hybrid attracts tui, bellbirds, and other nectar feeding birds to the garden.

From $26.15

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type: Shrubs
Height: 2.00 m
Spread: 2.50 m
Flowering time: Spring, Winter
Tolerances: Extended dry periods, Hardy
Garden uses: Living areas, Ponds, Pool areas
Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, 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.

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
Sophora 'Goldies Mantle' yellow flowers and green foliage.
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...

From$515.35
Sophora prostrata plant growing with a backdrop of Coprosma 'Poor Knights'.
Sophora prostrata

Sophora prostrata (Prostrate Kōwhai) is a unique New Zealand native shrub known for its distinctive zigzag stems and small bright yellow flowers...

From$26.15
A Sophora chathamica tree growing in a garden with green foliage.
Sophora chathamica

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

From$33.05
A Sophora godleyi specimen tree covered in yellow flowers.
Sophora godleyi (Godleys Kowhai)

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

From$323.65
Sophora microphylla specimen tree covered in yellow flowers.
Sophora microphylla (Small Leaved Kōwhai)

Sophora microphylla, commonly known as Weeping Kowhai, is a treasured New Zealand native tree admired for its graceful, drooping branches and masses...

From$28.91
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...

From$323.65
Sophora tetraptera (Large-leaved Kowhai) yellow flowers.
Sophora tetraptera (Large Leaved Kōwhai)

Sophora tetraptera, commonly known as the Large Leaved Kowhai, is a striking New Zealand native tree admired for its bold foliage and spectacular...

From$24.15
Chlorophytum comosum variegatum plants growing in pots on a shelf.
Chlorophytum comosum variegatum (Spider Plant)

Chlorophytum comosum Variegatum, commonly known as the Spider Plant, is a tender, herbaceous perennial grown for its lush and variegated foliage. It...

From$30.29
Disphyma australe pink flowers and fleshy, green leaves.
Disphyma australe (NZ Ice Plant)

Disphyma australe, commonly known as NZ Ice Plant, is a hardy and attractive groundcover valued for its fleshy, bright green foliage and striking...

From$14.95
Stromanthe triostar plant.
Stromanthe Triostar (Stromanthe Plant)

Stromanthe Triostar is a popular indoor plant owing to its lush and colourful foliage. It features elegant, dark green, pink, and cream-coloured...

From$33.05
70-windbreak-2
Shadecloth - 70% Shade (Shade Cloth For Plants)

This shade cloth for plants, which is also used as plant windbreaks, reduces light levels and windspeeds by 70%. Therefore, 30% of the wind or light...

From$499.80
clianthus-puniceus-
Clianthus puniceus (Parrot Beak Plant)

Clianthus puniceus (Kakabeak) is a spectacular New Zealand native shrub renowned for its striking clusters of brilliant red, beak shaped flowers that...

From$44.09
Sedum rubrotinctum (Jelly Bean Plant) bright red foliage.
Sedum rubrotinctum (Jelly Bean Plant)

Sedum rubrotinctum, commonly known as Jelly Bean Plant or Pork and Beans Plant, is a compact, low-growing succulent reaching 15–20 cm tall and...

From$21.39
Moss pole for plants.
Moss Pole For Plants (Moss Pole For Plants)

These moss poles for plants are made from Coir Fibre (i.e., the husks of coconuts). They are an eco-friendly option to help plants grow healthier and...

From$6.90
A large Monstera deliciosa (Swiss Cheese Plant) in a garden with lush, green leaves.
Monstera deliciosa (Swiss Cheese Plant)

Monstera deliciosa, also known as the Swiss Cheese or Fruit Salad Plant, is a popular indoor tropical plant loved for its striking, holey leaves and...

From$44.09
plant-pots-
2.5 Litre Thermoformed Plant Pots

These lightweight pots are a cost-effective means for growing on plants. They feature a strong and broad rim, have been UV stabilised for NZ...

From$37.44
half-litre-plant-pots-
0.51 Litre Thermoformed Plant Pots

These lightweight pots are a cost-effective means for growing on plants. They feature a strong and broad rim, have been UV stabilised for NZ...

From$23.04
pb-three-quarter-planter-bags-
PB¾ Planter Bags (Planting Bags)

The PB ¾ Planter Bags are 80 microns thick and ags hold 0.5 litres of potting mix. They are durable and won’t rip which makes them great for...

From$15.47
3-litre-plant-pots-
3.5 Litre Thermoformed Plant Pots

These lightweight pots are a cost-effective means for growing on plants. They feature a strong and broad rim, have been UV stabilised for NZ...

From$48.96
15-litre-plant-pots-
1.5 Litre Thermoformed Plant Pots

These lightweight pots are a cost effective means for growing on plants. They feature a strong and broad rim, have been UV stabilised for NZ...

From$27.36
pb-8-planter-bags-1
PB8 Planter Bags (Potting Bags For Plants)

These PB8 planter bags are 125 microns thick and hold 4.5 litres of potting mix. They are durable and won’t rip which makes them great for handling...

From$51.69
pb-12-planter-bags-
PB12 Planter Bags (Grow Bags For Plants)

These PB12 planter bags are 125 microns thick and hold 6.75 litres of potting mix. They are durable and won’t rip which makes them great for...

From$57.76
10-litre-plant-pots-
10 Litre Thermoformed Plant Pots

These lightweight pots are a cost effective means for growing on plants. They feature a strong and broad rim, have been UV stabilised for NZ...

From$5.76
pb-18-planter-bags-
PB18 Planter Bags (Grow Plant Bags)

These PB18 planter bags are 125 microns thick and each bag holds 10 litres of potting mix. They are durable and won’t rip which makes them great for...

From$77.47
5-litre-plant-pots-
5 Litre Thermoformed Plant Pots

These lightweight pots are a cost-effective means for growing on plants. They feature a strong and broad rim, have been UV stabilised for NZ...

From$79.20
strelitzia-nicolai-
Strelitzia nicolai (White Bird Of Paradise Plant)

Strelitzia nicolai (Giant White Bird Of Paradise) is a bold, architectural plant known for its large banana like leaves and striking white and blue...

From$44.09
White flowers on a Cistus 'Snowmound' plant with green foliage.
Cistus 'Snowmound' (White Rock Rose Plant)

Cistus ‘Snowmound’ is a compact evergreen shrub that produces a breathtaking display of pure white flowers with golden-yellow centres from late...

From$24.77
native-plant-fertiliser-
Native Plant Fertiliser (Native Fertiliser)

Selecting the correct native plant fertiliser is essential as they often tend to be slow growing and so require a tailored nutrient plan to meet...

From$13.40
A strong and studry planting spade.
Ace1 Planting Spade

The Ace 1 planting spade is a must for any gardener. This spade is designed so it can penetrate the ground easily without jarring the wrists in the...

From$225.86
pb-2-planter-bags-
PB2 Planter Bags (Plastic Plant Bags)

These PB2 planter bags are 80 microns thick and hold 1.2 litres of potting mix. They are durable and won’t rip which makes them great for handling...

From$20.54
Sophora 'Dragon's Gold'

Did you find what you are looking for?

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

Search sophora plant

What Makes Sophora Plant Special?

Sophora plants are native to New Zealand and are treasured for their elegant, pinnate foliage and profuse flowering displays. The classic golden blossoms stand out against their green leaves, offering a signature look not only in gardens but also parks and reserves throughout the country. This plant is renowned for:

Sophora plants are also valued for their cultural significance, representing New Zealand’s natural heritage.

Popular Sophora Varieties

Depending on your garden’s layout and desired features, you can choose from several sophisticated cultivars and species. For compact spaces and vibrant accents, Sophora 'Dragon's Gold' offers a bushy habit and early, rich yellow flowers. If you prefer impressive stature and cascading branches, Sophora 'Goldie's Mantle' is an exceptional choice, known for its robust growth and showstopping floral displays.

Other notable Sophora plant types include:

Uses and Planting Advice

Sophora plant species thrive in sunny, sheltered locations with well-drained soils. They’re perfect for New Zealand gardens, offering erosion control on banks, reliable privacy hedges, and focal points in native-themed designs. Gardeners enjoy planting Sophora for their seasonal floral impact and the way they create habitats for birds. For best results, mulch underneath to retain moisture and avoid lawn competition, and prune after flowering to encourage a compact shape.

Sophora Plant Care Tips

Sophora plants typically require little intervention once established. Water young plants during dry spells and protect them from heavy frosts until roots are well-deepened. Regular feeding in spring or autumn assists flowering, and occasional pruning maintains their natural beauty.

Explore Sophora for Every Garden

From striking shrubs to stately trees, Sophora plants are well suited to NZ’s climate and garden styles. Dive deeper into specific options like Sophora 'Dragon's Gold', Sophora 'Goldie's Mantle', Sophora chathamica, Sophora godleyi (Godleys Kowhai), and Sophora fulvida to find the perfect match for your space and style. Grow a Sophora plant and bring New Zealand’s iconic golden colour and biodiversity right to your doorstep.

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.

Illustration of plant leaves.
From trusted favourites like Agapanthus 'Gayles Lilac' and Rhododendron 'Black Magic' to fresh faces like Strelitzia Mandelas Gold (Yellow Crane Flower), Syzygium 'Resilience', and Grevillea 'Gold Rush' — we’ve got you covered.
–The Plant Company

Explore Garden Inspiration

Sign up to receive a free $10 Voucher You won’t be bombarded with emails, just titbits of quality information from time to time Sign up
Free shipping on orders over $150!

Join our community of happy customers.

4.8

445 Google reviews