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(Sophora prostrata)
Dwarf Kowhai (Sophora prostrata)
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Jon Sullivan
CC BY 4.0
Image By:
Jon Sullivan
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Jon Sullivan | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Rights Holder: Jon Sullivan | Publisher: iNaturalist | Date Created: 2017-11-14T11:11:38-08:00 |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Sophora prostrata, commonly known as Dwarf Kowhai, is an evergreen shrub native to the dry rocky outcrops and sparse scrublands of the South Island of New Zealand. It is a distinctive low-growing shrub, typically reaching a height of around 2 meters, with a unique divaricating habit that persists throughout its life, unlike other New Zealand Sophora species that outgrow this habit. The small, leathery leaves are up to 2 cm in length, and the shrub produces striking orange to yellow pea-like flowers, which are highly attractive to native birds. The flowers bloom in spring and are followed by seed pods containing black or very dark brown seeds, which may appear dark red.
Dwarf Kowhai is valued for its unusual growth form and vibrant flowers, making it a popular choice for rock gardens, informal hedges, and as a specimen plant in residential landscapes. It is relatively easy to maintain, requiring minimal pruning. This species prefers full sun to part shade and thrives in well-drained soils, tolerating a range of soil types from sandy to loamy. While it is drought-tolerant once established, it benefits from regular watering during extended dry periods. Gardeners should be aware that the seeds and other parts of the plant are toxic if ingested.CC BY-SA 4.0
Dwarf Kowhai is valued for its unusual growth form and vibrant flowers, making it a popular choice for rock gardens, informal hedges, and as a specimen plant in residential landscapes. It is relatively easy to maintain, requiring minimal pruning. This species prefers full sun to part shade and thrives in well-drained soils, tolerating a range of soil types from sandy to loamy. While it is drought-tolerant once established, it benefits from regular watering during extended dry periods. Gardeners should be aware that the seeds and other parts of the plant are toxic if ingested.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Shrub
- Height: 3-4 feet
- Width: 2-3 feet
- Growth Rate: Slow
- Flower Color: Yellow
- Flowering Season: Spring
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Medium
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rock Garden, Street Planting
Natural Habitat
Dry rocky outcrops and sparse scrublands of the South Island of New Zealand
Other Names
Common Names: Prostrate Kowhai, Kowhai, Dvärgkowhai
Scientific Names: , Sophora prostrata, Edwardsia prostrata, Sophora tetraptera var. prostrata,
GBIF Accepted Name: Sophora prostrata Buchanan