large-leaved kōwhai

Sophora tetraptera | kōwhai, large-leaved kōwhai

A graceful, slender tree belonging to the pea family, renowned for its spectacular display of yellow flowers in spring. Its compound leaves are composed of four leaflets and is a popular choice for landscaping and as a garden specimen, its nectar serves as an important food source for native birds like the tui and bellbird. This variety flowers earlier and boasts larger blooms compared to Sophora microphylla. It thrives particularly well in moist environments and is also semi-deciduous. Often incorporated into mixed garden designs, it typically reaches 10 meters tall and 3 meters wide with its fine, green foliage. It is important to note that all parts of kōwhai, are considered poisonous if ingestedand care should be taken when handling.