Sophora chathamica

Coastal Kowhai

Coastal Kowhai is the common name for Sophora chathamica, a NZ native tree grown for its foliage and flowers. It has attractive fern-like leaves and a distinct juvenile stage consisting of tangled branches. Branching becomes more open as the tree ages to become 10 m tall and 4 m wide. It may take up to 10 years for the tree to flower but when it does it produces masses of yellow flowers in spring. The nectar filled flowers are great for attracting birds and bees. This Kowhai is hardy to cool climates, frost, and wind but should be planted in full sun on a well-drained site for best results. The Coastal Kowhai is commonly grown as a specimen, included in a native planting, added to a coastal garden, or planted to attract birds.