About
Sophora tetraptera, the kowhai, is a large, spreading, semi-evergreen shrub or tree with pinnate leaves to 15 cm and drooping clusters of tubular, bright-yellow flowers to 5 cm long in late spring. A spectacular and rewarding ornamental plant for a sunny, sheltered, well-drained garden or south-facing wall.
About the genus
Sophora are deciduous or evergreen trees and shrubs producing elegant, pinnate leaves and pea-like flowers � sometimes fragrant � in racemes or panicles. Rewarding ornamental trees and shrubs for a sunny, well-drained garden.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageSemi evergreen
Height4-8 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden
Native toNew Zealand
ToxicityHarmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets (dogs): Harmful if eaten - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow in well-drained soil, in full sun
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by seed in containers in a cold frame as soon as ripe. Alternatively propagate by semi-ripe cuttings with bottom heat in summer or autumn
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)