Sophora prostrata (Miniature Kōwhai), family Fabaceae, is a compact, divaricating New Zealand native shrub known for its dense, interlacing zig-zag branch structure. It forms a tight, twiggy mound with small leaves, creating a fine-textured, architectural appearance ideal for modern gardens, rockeries, and low hedging. Endemic to New Zealand, it naturally occurs in dry, rocky areas of the eastern South Island, particularly in Canterbury and Otago. It typically grows 1.5–2 m wide, forming a dense, rounded shrub. Growth is slow to moderate, establishing gradually while maintaining a compact form with minimal pruning. In spring, it produces bright yellow, tubular kōwhai flowers nestled within the branching structure, which are attractive to birds. It is highly tolerant of drought, wind, and poor soils, prefers full sun and free-draining conditions, and is very hardy to frost, making it well suited to exposed and dry sites.
Sophora prostrata - miniture kowhai
Botanical Name Sophora prostrata Common Name Miniature Kōwhai Family Fabaceae Type Evergreen shrub Origin New Zealand Mature Height 1-1.5 m Mature Spread 1-2 m Sun Requirements Full sun Soil Well-drained soils Flowering Produces bright yellow, tubular kōwhai flowers in spring, often nestled within the branching structure. Flowers are attractive to birds Wind Tolerance Excellent — tolerates wind and salt spray; suitable for coastal sites Frost Tolerance Hardy Drought Tolerance Good Growth Rate Relatively fast Maintenance Very low Conservation Status Not Threatened
