Also known as Coastal Kōwhai
Coastal Kowhai (Sophora chathamica) is a small to medium-sized native tree from New Zealand's Chatham Islands, known for its bright yellow flowers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers full sun for best flowering and growth.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Tolerates a range of temperatures but prefers mild climates. Protect from hard frost.
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly in spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, especially during establishment and dry periods. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Coastal Kowhai is moderately drought-tolerant once established but performs best with consistent moisture. Avoid waterlogged conditions, as this can lead to root rot.
Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Light pruning can be done to control size, but avoid heavy pruning, as it may reduce future flowering.
Sophora chathamica can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. Seeds require scarification and warm temperatures for germination. Cuttings are best taken in summer from semi-hardwood and rooted in a well-draining medium.
Repot young plants every 1-2 years in spring as needed to accommodate root growth. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Established plants generally do not require frequent repotting and can be left in their pots for longer periods.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Coastal Kowhai (Sophora chathamica)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| kingdom | Plantae |
| division | Tracheophyta |
| class | Magnoliopsida |
| order | Fabales |
| family | Fabaceae |
| genus | Sophora |
| species | Sophora chathamica |
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
