Sophora tetraptera (North Island Kōwhai), family Fabaceae, is a graceful New Zealand native tree known for its larger leaves and showy golden flowers. It typically grows 6–10 m tall with a spreading canopy and has a less divaricating juvenile form than other kōwhai species, giving it a softer, more tree-like appearance from a young age. Endemic to New Zealand, it is naturally found in the North Island in coastal and lowland forests, often along stream edges and forest margins. It typically spreads 4–6 m wide, forming a rounded crown at maturity. Growth is moderate to fast, establishing well and reaching several metres within 5–10 years in favourable conditions. In spring, it produces abundant large, bright yellow tubular flowers, which are highly attractive to native birds such as tūī and bellbirds. It tolerates light frost, wind, and a range of soil types, prefers full sun and well-drained soils, and performs particularly well in coastal and warmer regions.
Sophora Tetraptera - North Island Kowhai
Botanical Name Sophora tetraptera Common Name (North Island Kōwhai Family Fabaceae Type small- to medium-sized tree Origin New Zealand Mature Height 6-10m Mature Spread 4-6 m Sun Requirements Full sun Soil Well-drained soils Flowering abundant large, bright yellow tubular flowers Wind Tolerance Excellent — tolerates wind and salt spray; suitable for coastal sites Frost Tolerance Light frost tolerant Drought Tolerance Good Growth Rate Relatively fast ( full size within 5-8 years) Maintenance Very low Conservation Status Not Threatened
