Family: Fabaceae
Author: Aiton
Bibliography: Hort. Kew. 2: 43 (1789)
Year: 1789
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Sophora
Vegetable: Unknown
Observations: New Zealand, C. & S. Chile
Description
Kowhai, known scientifically as Sophora microphylla, is a prominent member of the Fabaceae family. This elegant tree is cherished for its distinctive and captivating yellow flowers, which bloom abundantly from early spring and often into late autumn, bringing a striking splash of color to its natural habitats.
Indigenous to New Zealand, Kowhai holds significant cultural importance for the Māori people, being named after the word for yellow in the Māori language which references the vibrant hue of its blossoms. The tree is also found in central and southern Chile, illustrating its adaptability to various climates within these regions.
Kowhai trees are characterized by their gracefully arching branches and delicate, fern-like leaves. They are typically small to medium in size, though their intricate structures and vivid flowers allow them to stand out in any landscape. The flowers are a critical source of nectar and attract a range of bird species, including the tui and bellbird, which play a vital role in their pollination.
Beyond its aesthetic and ecological contributions, Kowhai has been utilized in traditional Māori medicine. The bark, leaves, and flowers have historically been used to treat injuries, such as skin abrasions and bruises. Even today, the tree’s presence in gardens and public spaces continues to promote biodiversity and natural beauty.
First formally described in the late 18th century by Aiton in Hortus Kewensis, Kowhai remains a subject of interest and admiration for botanists and horticulturists alike. Its resilient nature and ornamental appeal have made it a popular choice in cultivation, extending its reach to gardens and parks well beyond its native locales.
In essence, Sophora microphylla, or Kowhai, encapsulates a blend of cultural heritage, ecological value, and natural beauty, earning it a revered spot among the flora of New Zealand and beyond.
Common Names
Eng: kowhai
En: Kowhai
Ar: صفيراء صغيرة الأوراق
Mi: Kowhai, Kōwhai
Synonyms
- Edwardsia microphylla ((Aiton) Salisb.)
- Sophora tetraptera var. microphylla ((Aiton) Hook.f.)
- Edwardsia grandiflora var. microphylla ((Aiton) Hook.f.)
Distribution
- Chatham Is. (native)
- Chile Central (native)
- Chile South (native)
- New Zealand North (native)
- New Zealand South (native)
Additional Images
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Leaf
Taken Feb 16, 2022 by David Hocken (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 11, 2022 by Gregory Ishikawa-Pearson (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 1, 2022 by Graeme Hawkins (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 8, 2022 by Hubert Geraux (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 19, 2021 by R. O Boros (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Jan 2, 2020 by Diego Alex (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 1, 2022 by H L (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 16, 2022 by David Hocken (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 1, 2022 by Graeme Hawkins (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken Sep 14, 2021 by Ball Darren (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 27, 2006 by Maarten Vanhove (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 5, 2021 by Tarn R (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 19, 2021 by R. O Boros (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 19, 2021 by R. O Boros (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Feb 23, 2020 by solange saravia (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 1, 2022 by Graeme Hawkins (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 16, 2022 by David Hocken (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 19, 2021 by R. O Boros (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Feb 14, 2022 by Cristián León Moya (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 14, 2022 by Cristián León Moya (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 23, 2020 by solange saravia (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 23, 2020 by solange saravia (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 31, 2021 by Moreno Olivares Juan Luis (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2959082)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:518887-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Sophora microphylla Aiton)