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sophora tree

The sophora tree is a celebrated feature of New Zealand gardens, valued for its elegant form, golden blooms, and ability to attract native wildlife. Known commonly as kowhai, sophora trees are admired not only for their striking appearance but also for their adaptability to a variety of landscapes. Whether you are looking for a statement specimen or an eco-friendly addition to your garden, the sophora tree makes an excellent choice. On this page, you'll discover the unique qualities of the sophora tree, its uses, care tips, and popular varieties to help you select the right sophora for your outdoor space.

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. This coastal kōwhai is fast growing, hardy, and highly attractive to native birds such as tūī and kererū.

From $323.65

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 10.00 m
Spread: 4.00 m
Flowering time: Spring
Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy, Wind
Garden uses: Parks, Screening, Specimen
Garden styles: Alpine, Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Modern, Native
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. This kōwhai variety is fast growing, hardy, and an excellent choice for adding beauty and attracting native birds such as tūī and kererū.

From $323.65

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type: Trees
Height: 15.00 m
Spread: 5.00 m
Flowering time: Summer
Tolerances: Extended dry periods, Wind
Garden uses: Ponds, Screening
Garden styles: Architectural, Modern, Native
Sophora fulvida tree with masses of yellow flowers.
Sophora fulvida

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

From$169.24
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 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 '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 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
Sophora molloyi 'Dragons Gold' small trees in full flower at The Plant Company.
Sophora 'Dragon's Gold'

Sophora 'Dragons Gold' is a highly ornamental NZ native shrub renowned for its early and vibrant golden yellow flowers. Blooming in late winter and...

From$26.15
Metrosideros excelsa (Pohutukawa) specimen tree with masses of red flowers in a coastal location.
Metrosideros excelsa (Pōhutukawa)

Metrosideros excelsa, commonly known as Pōhutukawa or the New Zealand Christmas Tree, is a coastal evergreen renowned for its brilliant red flowers...

From$30.29
A Parrotia persica 'Pendula' specimen tree with pendulous green foliage.
Parrotia persica pendula (Weeping Persian Ironwood)

Parrotia persica 'Pendula', commonly known as the Weeping Persian Ironwood, is a tree grown for its fantastic autumn colours and weeping growth...

From$270.40
Tabebuia rosea tree with masses of pink flowers.
Tabebuia rosea (Pink Poui)

Tabebuia rosea is a spectacular flowering tree admired for its masses of soft pink trumpet shaped blooms that appear before the foliage in spring...

From$65.55
Myoporum laetum (Ngaio) tree with lush foliage and white flowers growing in a coastal location.
Myoporum laetum (Ngaio)

Myoporum laetum, commonly known as Ngaio, is a NZ native tree grown for its lush foliage and showy flowers. It features large, fleshy, green leaves...

From$28.91
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Tree Fertiliser (Tree Fertiliser)

Using tree fertiliser results in plants having better quality foliage, more profuse flowering, stronger stems, and a much healthier and brighter...

From$16.95
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PB60 Planter Bags (Bag For Xmas Tree)

PB60 Planter Bags are a strong and practical option for growing large trees, shrubs, fruit plants, natives, and advanced nursery stock. Their...

From$169.50
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PB28 Planter Bags (Christmas Tree Bag)

PB28 Planter Bags are a durable and economical option for growing large trees, shrubs, fruit plants, natives, and other mature nursery stock. Their...

From$130.50
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Azara microphylla

Azara microphylla (Vanilla Tree) is a graceful evergreen tree admired for its small glossy leaves and wonderfully fragrant yellow flowers. In spring...

From$387.55
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Palm Tree Fertiliser (Palm Tree Fertiliser)

Choosing the correct Palm tree fertiliser is essential for producing better quality foliage, stronger fronds, and a much healthier and brighter...

From$16.95
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Schinus molle (Peruvian Peppercorn)

Schinus molle (California Pepper Tree) is an elegant evergreen tree admired for its graceful weeping branches, fine textured foliage, and attractive...

From$281.05
Melia azedarach tree.
Melia azedarach (Bead Tree)

Melia azedarach (Bead Tree, White Cedar) is a graceful deciduous tree valued for its attractive fern like foliage, fragrant clusters of lilac...

From$387.55
ulmus-lobel-
Ulmus 'Lobel' (Dutch Elm Tree)

Ulmus 'Lobel' is a refined deciduous elm valued for its narrow upright form, dense green foliage, and excellent suitability as an avenue or specimen...

From$557.95
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Tree Guards

Tree Guards provide a simple and effective way to protect young trees from animals, wind, accidental damage, and herbicide spray. They create a...

From$5.00
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Jute Tree Tie

Jute Tree Tie is a natural and flexible option for securing young trees to stakes while they establish. The soft material helps reduce rubbing and...

From$64.67
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Cloth Tree Tie

Cloth Tree Ties are a soft, flexible solution for securely supporting young trees and plants while they establish. Made from durable cloth material...

From$9.28
Albizia julibrissin 'Rosea' pink flowers and lush, green foliage.
Albizia julibrissin 'Rosea'

Albizia julibrissin 'Rosea' (Silk Tree) is a stunning deciduous tree valued for its graceful spreading canopy, fern like foliage, and masses of...

From$344.95
A large Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa tree).
Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa Tree)

Beilschmiedia tawa, commonly known as the Tawa Tree, is a tall and graceful evergreen native to New Zealand. It is admired for its straight trunk...

From$313.00
fruiting-plant-fertiliser-
Fruit Tree Fertiliser (Fruit Tree Fertiliser)

Fruiting plants respond well to fruit tree fertiliser with better quality produce, higher yields, and a much healthier and brighter looking plant...

From$16.95
Phyllocladus trichomanoides lush green foliage.
Phyllocladus trichomanoides (Celery Pine)

Phyllocladus trichomanoides, commonly called Celery Pine, is a striking New Zealand native tree valued for its unique, celery like foliage and tall...

From$515.35
Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu) tree juvenile foliage.
Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu Tree)

Dacrydium cupressinum, commonly known as Rimu or Red Pine, is an iconic and slow-growing tree. The juvenile form features drooping branches densely...

From$99.29
Magnolia denudata

Magnolia denudata, commonly known as the Lily Tree or Yulan Magnolia, is a deciduous tree admired for its large, fragrant, creamy white flowers that...

From$270.40
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Magnolia denudata 'Gere'

Magnolia denudata 'Gere' is a magnificent deciduous tree celebrated for its large, fragrant white flowers that appear in late winter and early spring...

From$387.55
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Acer platanoides

Acer platanoides (Norway Maple) is a large deciduous tree prized for its broad canopy, dense shade, and attractive seasonal colour. The lush green...

From$249.95
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Koelreuteria paniculata

Koelreuteria paniculata (Golden Rain Tree) is a stunning deciduous tree admired for its bright yellow flower clusters and attractive foliage. In...

From$270.40
Sophora chathamica

Did you find what you are looking for?

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

Search sophora tree

Why Choose a Sophora Tree for Your Garden?

Sophora trees are renowned for their graceful, airy foliage and dazzling clusters of yellow flowers that bloom from late winter through spring. Their nectar-rich flowers are a magnet for tui, bellbirds, and other native birds, making the sophora tree a perfect option for encouraging biodiversity in your garden. Hardy and drought-tolerant once established, sophora trees thrive in New Zealand’s varied climates, from coastal sites to sheltered urban gardens.

Popular Sophora Tree Varieties

There is a sophora tree to suit every setting. Gardeners looking for a compact, upright habit might consider Sophora 'Milligold', a refined selection with finely divided foliage and abundant blooms. For dramatic foliage, Sophora chathamica stands out with its lush leaves and exceptional performance in coastal gardens. If you admire weeping forms, Sophora japonica 'Pendula' (Weeping Japanese Pagoda Tree) provides a graceful silhouette, adding elegance to any landscape. The striking Sophora godleyi (Godleys Kowhai) features cascading branches and vibrant golden flowers. Another option is Sophora fulvida, which is valued for its resilience and compact growth.

Sophora Tree Uses and Benefits

The sophora tree's versatility makes it ideal for a range of uses. Its moderate size and root system allow it to be planted near patios or driveways, while its flowers provide a long-lasting show throughout the spring months. Sophora trees are commonly used as feature trees, shelterbelts, or as part of a native planting scheme. Their foliage creates light, dappled shade perfect for underplanting with ferns or native shrubs. In addition to beautifying spaces, sophora trees support native ecosystems by giving food and habitat to birds and beneficial insects.

How to Grow and Care for Your Sophora Tree

Sophora trees flourish in well-drained soils with plenty of sunlight, though they will tolerate partial shade. Plant in a position sheltered from harsh winds, and water regularly during establishment. Once your sophora tree settles in, it’s typically low-maintenance—just prune lightly to shape after flowering if needed. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Sophoras are generally pest-resistant but, when young, may require protection from browsing animals.

Find the Perfect Sophora Tree for Your Landscape

With their show-stopping blooms, native bird appeal, and versatile form, sophora trees are a can’t-miss addition to any New Zealand garden. Browse our range of specialty sophora varieties, including Sophora 'Milligold', Sophora japonica 'Pendula' (Weeping Japanese Pagoda Tree), Sophora chathamica, Sophora godleyi (Godleys Kowhai), and Sophora fulvida to find the ideal plant for your garden. Enjoy the beauty and benefits of a sophora tree and create a vibrant, bird-friendly outdoor space for years to come.

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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.

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