Kowhai Sophora microphylla
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as Kowhai is known for its striking features. It typically has slender, wiry branches that form an elegant, somewhat open framework. The leaves are small, with many leaflets that are a vivid green color, giving it a delicate, almost feathery appearance. These leaflets are often oblong-shaped and have smooth edges. One of the most distinctive characteristics of the Kowhai is its beautiful flowers, which appear in drooping clusters. These blooms are a vibrant yellow, tubular in shape, and they hang gracefully from the branches, adding a splash of color that is often associated with the plant. The flowering season sees these blossoms become a significant food source for local birds, who are drawn to the nectar within. Following the flowering stage, the Kowhai produces seed pods that are also quite distinctive. The pods are commonly long and slender, starting out green and becoming brown as they mature. They eventually dry out and split open to release the seeds inside. Overall, the Kowhai has a very unique and aesthetic appeal, with its combination of fine foliage, striking yellow flowers, and elongated seed pods making it a distinguished member of plant communities where it naturally occurs.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Kowhai, Small-Leaved Kowhai, Small Leaf Sophora, Weeping Kowhai, South Island Kowhai
Common names
Edwardsia microphylla, Sophora tetraptera, Sophora microphylla var. microphylla.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
20 feet (6 meters)
Spread
10 feet (3 meters)
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
New Zealand
Benefits
General Benefits- Erosion Control: Sophora microphylla, commonly known as kowhai, has a root system that helps stabilize soil, making it useful for preventing erosion in vulnerable areas.
- Habitat for Wildlife: Kowhai trees provide habitat and food for various birds, insects, and other native wildlife, supporting biodiversity.
- Nitrogen Fixation: Like other legumes, kowhai can fix atmospheric nitrogen into the soil, which can improve soil fertility for surrounding plant life.
- Ornamental Value: With its bright yellow, pendulous flowers, kowhai is often grown for ornamental purposes in gardens and parks.
- Shade Provider: As kowhai matures, it can provide moderate shade, creating cooler environments beneath its canopy.
- Cultural Significance: Kowhai has a special place in the cultural traditions and heritage of New Zealand, including its use in art, legend, and ceremonial occasions.
- Source of Nectar: The flowers of kowhai are a rich source of nectar, particularly attractive to birds such as the New Zealand native tui and bellbird.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Sophora microphylla has been used traditionally for its potential anti-inflammatory effects.
- Antimicrobial: There is evidence suggesting that extracts from this plant may have antimicrobial properties against certain pathogens.
- Antioxidant: The plant may contain compounds that exhibit antioxidant properties, which could help in mitigating oxidative stress.
- Analgesic: Some studies suggest that Sophora microphylla may offer pain-relieving benefits.
- Antitumor: There is preliminary research indicating that compounds found in the plant may have antitumor activities.
- Hepatoprotective: There are indications that the plant might have properties that protect the liver.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dye Production: The bark of the Kowhai has been traditionally used for its natural yellow dye, which is utilized in textile coloring.
- Wood Crafting: The hard, dense wood of Kowhai is often used in turning, carving, and the creation of detailed wooden objects due to its fine grain.
- Traditional Fishing: The indigenous Maori of New Zealand have historically used the seeds of Kowhai as a bait for catching fish.
- Tanning Leather: Kowhai bark contains tannins that can be used in the tanning process to cure hides and skins.
- Ornamental Use: Kowhai trees are frequently planted in gardens and parks for their striking yellow flowers and aesthetic appeal.
- Nursery Plant: Kowhai is sometimes used in forestry nurseries as a nurse plant to provide shelter and support for other more delicate seedlings.
- Soil Erosion Control: The root system of Kowhai is effective in stabilizing hillsides and riverbanks, helping to prevent soil erosion.
- Natural Insecticide: Extracts from the Kowhai tree have been used as an insecticide to control pests in other crops.
- Education and Research: Kowhai is often included in educational programs and botanical research due to its unique characteristics and adaptability.
- Floral Arrangements: The beautiful yellow blossoms of Kowhai are sometimes used in floral arrangements and decorations during their blooming season.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Kowhai is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Kowhai is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Sophora microphylla, also known as Kowhai, is known for its hardiness, able to grow in challenging environments, symbolizing the ability to overcome adversity.
- Beauty: The Kowhai is renowned for its stunning yellow flowers, representing the concept of beauty and appreciation for the aesthetic.
- Healing: With its medicinal properties traditionally used by the indigenous Māori people of New Zealand, the Kowhai signifies healing and therapeutic qualities.
- Renewal: As a plant that bursts into bloom after the cold months, Kowhai embodies the idea of new beginnings and the rejuvenation of life.
WaterThe Kowhai should be watered thoroughly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. During the growing season in spring and summer, this may mean watering approximately every 7 to 10 days, with about 1-2 gallons of water each time, depending on the size and environment of the plant. It is important to adjust the watering frequency based on weather conditions, less during cooler periods and more in warmer periods. Ensure adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging, which could be harmful to the plant's roots.
LightKowhai thrives best in full sunlight to partial shade. To ensure healthy growth, plant your Kowhai in a location where it receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. The high level of light will promote plentiful flowering and strong, healthy foliage.
TemperatureKowhai prefers temperate climates and can tolerate a temperature range from 20°F to 85°F, with the ideal conditions being between 50°F and 75°F. They should be protected from extreme cold below 20°F which can damage or kill the plant.
PruningPrune Kowhai to maintain its shape and health, focusing on removing dead or damaged branches, and to encourage new growth. The best time for pruning is late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Pruning can be done annually or as needed to keep the plant's size in check.
CleaningAs needed
SoilKowhai prefers a well-draining soil mix with some organic matter. The best soil for Kowhai (Sophora microphylla) would be a mixture comprised of 2 parts loam, 1 part peat, and 1 part sand or perlite to promote drainage. It thrives in a slightly acidic to neutral pH, around 5.5 to 7.0.
RepottingKowhai should be repotted every 2 to 3 years during its growing season to ensure healthy growth. When repotting Kowhai, choose a pot only one size larger than the previous to prevent waterlogging.
Humidity & MistingKowhai tolerates a wide range of humidity levels but performs best in moderate to high humidity conditions. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Kowhai in bright, indirect light indoors.
Outdoor
Plant Kowhai in full sun to partial shade outdoors.
Hardiness zone
8-10 USDA
Life cycleKōwhai, or Sophora microphylla, begins its life cycle as a seed, often dispersed by birds or gravity. After germination, the seedling establishes a root system and shoots up its first set of true leaves, entering the juvenile vegetative stage where rapid growth occurs. As the plant matures, it develops into a small shrub or tree and enters the adult vegetative stage, producing distinctive compound leaves. Once mature, typically in several years, kōwhai transitions to the reproductive stage, blooming with bright yellow, nectar-rich flowers that attract birds, particularly the native Tui and bellbird, which aid in pollination. Following pollination, the plant produces pods containing seeds, completing the cycle when these seeds are dispersed. During its life span, kōwhai may experience periods of dormancy during adverse weather conditions, only to resume growth with the return of favorable seasons.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-early summer
The most popular method for propagating Sophora microphylla, commonly known as Kowhai, is by seed. For successful propagation, collect the seeds in late summer to early fall when the pods have turned brown and begun to crack open. To overcome the seed's natural dormancy, a process of scarification is needed, which involves nicking or scratching the hard outer coating of the seed to allow water to penetrate. After scarification, the seeds should be soaked in warm water for 24 to 48 hours to further soften the coat and promote germination. Sow the seeds in a well-draining seed starting mix, covering them with a thin layer of soil, about 1/4 inch (about 6 millimeters) deep. Place the seed containers in a warm, brightly lit area and keep the soil consistently moist. Germination typically occurs within one to three weeks.
