Description

Sophora chathamica, also known as the Coastal Kowhai, is a magnificent native tree found in coastal regions of New Zealand. Standing up to 20 meters tall, this striking evergreen is renowned for its stunning displays of golden-yellow flowers that bloom prolifically from late winter through mid-spring.

One of the standout features of the Coastal Kowhai is its elegant, fern-like foliage. Unlike many other kowhai species, Sophora chathamica lacks the juvenile tangle of shoots, instead featuring larger, more densely packed leaves along its graceful branches. This makes it an excellent choice for a range of landscape applications, from specimen plantings to screening and informal hedging.

Despite its towering stature, the Coastal Kowhai is remarkably hardy and adaptable. It can thrive in full sun or partial shade, and is highly tolerant of dry, windy conditions - a true testament to its resilience. This hardiness, combined with its nectar-rich flowers that attract native birds, make Sophora chathamica a valuable addition to any garden or parkland setting.

Gardeners looking to incorporate this stunning native tree into their landscape will appreciate its relatively low-maintenance requirements. Apart from the occasional pruning to maintain shape and size, the Coastal Kowhai requires little intervention to continue providing its year-round visual interest and ecological benefits.