How to identify Kōwhai (Sophora microphylla)

How to identify Kōwhai (Sophora microphylla)

Kōwhai, also known as Weeping kōwhai

Kōwhai stands as a winter-deciduous small tree, potentially growing up to 25 feet (7.62 meters) tall. It displays a significant two-stage growth pattern, with a divaricating, bushy juvenile phase, leading to an upright mature form with open branching. The tree is distinguished by its vivid yellow blooms, which appear in late winter to spring within short axillary clusters. Its compound leaves are finely textured. This species is notable for its resilience to low temperatures, surviving down to at least 20°F (-6.67°C).

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Tree, Shrub

Leaf Type: Evergreen

Quickly Identify Kōwhai

Small tree up to 25 feet (7.62 meters) tall

Vivid yellow blooms in late winter to spring

Divaricating, bushy juvenile phase transitioning to upright mature form

Resilient to low temperatures, surviving down to at least 20°F (-6.67°C)

Compound leaves with fine texture

Kōwhai and Their Similar Plants

Texas mountain laurel vs. Kōwhai: What's The Difference?

Texas mountain laurel (Sophora secundiflora) is a slow-growing multi-trunk shrub that can grow from 3 to 6 m tall. From winter to spring it produces drooping clusters of bluish-lavender flowers that produce a grape-soda-like fragrance. The fruit is a semi-woody pod filled with bright red poisonous seeds. Drought tolerant and prefers full sun to partial shade.

Eve's Necklace vs. Kōwhai: What's The Difference?

Eve's Necklace is a small tree with pink flowers that hang in clusters. It also grows black fruit with poisonous seeds in bead-like arrangements, which is how it earned its nickname. Eve's Necklace grows in the United States and thrives in limestone soil.

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Key Facts About Kōwhai

Attributes of Kōwhai

Lifespan

Perennial

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2.5 cm

Flower Color

Yellow

Fruit Color

Brown

Leaf type

Evergreen

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Scientific Classification of Kōwhai

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Legumes, milkworts and allies

Family

Legume

Genus

Necklacepods

Species

Kōwhai (Sophora microphylla)

Learn More About the Kōwhai

Distribution Map of Kōwhai

Kōwhai is a plant indigenous to the southwestern Pacific region. It has been successfully introduced and cultivated in various temperate zones worldwide. The plant's native range is confined to areas characterized by a milder oceanic climate, while its cultivation extends across suitable habitats in subtropical and temperate regions globally.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

Learn More About the Kōwhai

A Comprehensive Guide to Kōwhai How to Grow and Care for Kōwhai