Sophora fulvida

Southern Kowhai

Southern Kowhai is the common name for Sophora fulvida, a smaller variety of the NZ native Kowhai which is grown for both its foliage and flowers. This compact selection produces bright green, fern-like foliage which is becomes adorned with pendulous clusters of golden-yellow flowers in spring. The nectar filled flowers are great for attracting birds and bees. This evergreen tree typically grows to 4 m tall and the same wide, performing best when planted in full sun on a well-drained site. It is tolerant of frost, cool climates, moderate wind, and poorer soils. The Southern Kowhai is ideal for smaller gardens where it is commonly grown as a specimen or added to a mixed planting. It is well suited to planting around living areas such as barbecue areas or for using as a textural contrast with other larger leaved shrubs or fine foliaged grasses.