Kōwhai (Sophora microphylla), also known as weeping kōwhai and small-leaved kōwhai, is a beloved New Zealand tree. Learn more about native trees.
Image credit: Kōwhai (Sophora microphylla). Photo by Wikipedia contributors, via Wikipedia
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Sophora microphylla |
|---|---|
| Height | Up to 8 m (26 ft), often smaller in gardens |
| Spread | 4–6 m (13–20 ft) wide |
| Water Needs | Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established |
| Light | Full sun for best flowering; tolerates partial shade |
| Frost Tolerance | Moderate; tolerates light to moderate frosts |
| Salt Tolerance | Moderate; tolerates some coastal exposure |
| Growth Rate | Moderate to fast |
| Lifespan | Long-lived; can persist for decades |
Climate Suitability
| City | Suitability |
|---|---|
| Whangārei | Ideal |
| Auckland | Ideal |
| Hamilton | Ideal |
| Tauranga | Ideal |
| Rotorua | Ideal |
| Gisborne | Ideal |
| New Plymouth | Ideal |
| Napier | Ideal |
| Whanganui | Ideal |
| Palmerston North | Ideal |
| Wellington | Ideal |
| Nelson | Ideal |
| Christchurch | Moderate |
| Dunedin | Moderate |
| Invercargill | Moderate |
Growing Requirements
Soil
- Well-draining soil is essential
- Tolerates a range of soil types, including clay and sandy soils
- Prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH
Light
- Full sun for best flowering
- Can tolerate partial shade
Water
- Moderate water needs
- Drought-tolerant once established
- Avoid waterlogged conditions
Uses & Significance
Garden Uses
- Feature tree for gardens and parks
- Attracts native birds, especially tūī and bellbirds
- Great for riparian and restoration planting
Cultural Significance
- Highly valued in Māori culture for its beauty and as a harbinger of spring
- Wood used for tools and construction
- Flowers and bark used in traditional medicine (rongoā)
Ecological Value
- Important nectar source for native birds and insects
- Host plant for native longhorn beetle (Coptomma variegatum)
Seasonal Care Calendar
Spring
- Peak flowering period
- Mulch and fertilize if needed
- Monitor for pests
Summer
- Water young trees during dry spells
- Weed around base to reduce competition
Autumn
- Collect seeds for propagation
- Prune lightly if needed
Winter
- Plant new specimens
- Protect young trees from heavy frost
Pruning
Prune after flowering to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged wood. Avoid heavy pruning, as kōwhai can be slow to recover. Light formative pruning when young helps develop a strong structure.
Planting Guide
- Choose a sunny, well-drained site
- Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball
- Mix in compost or organic matter
- Plant at the same depth as in the pot
- Water well after planting
- Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Stake young trees if exposed to wind
Propagation Methods
- Grow from fresh seed (scarify and soak seeds before sowing)
- Can also be propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer
- Seedlings may take several years to flower
Cultural History
Kōwhai is deeply woven into New Zealand’s natural and cultural heritage. It is celebrated in art, song, and legend, and is often planted in marae and public spaces. The bright yellow flowers are a symbol of spring and renewal.
Cultural Significance
Learn more about the cultural significance of native trees in Cultural Plants.
Pests & Diseases
- Generally pest-free
- Occasionally affected by caterpillars, scale insects, or root rot in poorly drained soils
- Young plants may be browsed by livestock or rabbits
Bonus Tip
Plant kōwhai near windows or outdoor seating to enjoy the spring display of yellow flowers and the native birds they attract. Avoid overwatering and ensure good drainage for best results.
