coastal kōwhai
Sophora chathamica | coastal kōwhai
A beautiful and hardy tree, with one or more trunks and spreading to upright branches bearing moderately dense, overlapping leaflets. Primarily found in coastal forests, often on cliffs or banks overlooking estuaries or inlets, it is occasionally seen in swamp forests. A key distinguishing feature from other kōwhai is its lack of a divaricating juvenile stage. This species produces masses of attractive yellow flowers, around 3 cm long, attracting birds and bees. Very tolerant of dry areas and coastal winds, it thrives in full sun or semi-shade. Commonly grown as a specimen in coastal gardens it features attractive fern-like, large, dark-green leaves that give it a dense appearance.
typical habitat.
coastal forest
cliff tops
coastal scrub
streamsides
swamp forest
drainage.
free draining
sun.
full sun
partial shade
mature specifications.
height | 20m
width | 4m / 50cm (trunk)
pollinators calendar.
flowering | (June) - July-November
fruiting | October-November
did you know?
Kōwhai is a beloved and iconic native tree of New Zealand, widely considered the unofficial national flower. Its vibrant yellow blossoms, which appear abundantly in spring, create a striking contrast against the green of the surrounding landscape, making it a popular choice for gardens. The distinctive imagery of kōwhai is frequently featured in New Zealand art and has graced postage stamps and coins. As we have 8 native species that have different natural ranges it is best to consider planting the one most suitable to your area to improve biodiversity.