Sophora tetraptera

Kowhai Tetraptera

The Kowhai tetraptera is a NZ native tree with a slender and graceful growth habit. Trees carry fine, green foliage which is adorned with masses of golden yellow flowers in spring. Flowering begins when the trees are about 2-3 years old and they attract all manner of birds and bees. It typically grows to 10 m tall and 3 m wide and can easily be contained with trimming. Best results with this tree are achieved when it is grown in full sun or partial shade on a well-drained site. Kowhai tetraptera will tolerate dry periods, semi-wet soils, coastal conditions, frost, and some wind. This Kowhai should be included in any native planting and is commonly grown as a specimen, planted to attract birds, or included in a mixed planting.

Sophora tetraptera Height

The maximum Sophora tetraptera height is generally 10 m tall with a spread of about 3 m. This tree can easily be kept to a smaller height with trimming. If you wish to keep the tree contained to 2-3 m tall, we recommend lightly trimming it each summer with the focus being on the highest branches. This will also help produce a dense tree and avoid the need for aggressive pruning.