Also known as Coastal Kōwhai
Coastal Kowhai (Sophora chathamica) is a hardy native New Zealand tree with attractive yellow flowers, found on coastal cliffs and rocky shores.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Thrives in full sun, which promotes abundant flowering and compact growth.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce in winter.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers mild temperatures; can tolerate light frosts once established.
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly in spring with a balanced, slow-release formula.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in winter.
Coastal Kowhai prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate some drought once established, but consistent moisture promotes better growth.
Prune to shape and remove any dead or damaged branches. Light pruning can be done after flowering to encourage bushier growth.
Heavy pruning is generally not required but can be used to manage size or remove crossing branches.
Propagate from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer or autumn. Root cuttings in a well-draining medium.
Alternatively, seeds can be sown in spring after stratification (scarification or soaking) to improve germination rates.
Repot young plants every 1-2 years in spring to refresh the soil and provide more space. Mature plants rarely need repotting and prefer to be slightly pot-bound.
Use a well-draining potting mix, preferably with a good amount of sand.
Identify plants like this with ePlant AI
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Coastal Kowhai (Sophora chathamica)
Where Coastal Kowhai (Sophora chathamica) is found
Density
Tap map to explore
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Sophora |
| Species | Sophora chathamica |
Similar in genus Sophora
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
