Kōwhai

Scientific name

Sophora microphylla

Physical Features

Height -25m

Description - Small round leafs with yellow flowers. Their seeds develop in pods.

Location - All around Aotearoa New Zealand

Uses

Kōwhai was known to Māori to have a hard wood, therefore could be used for many projects and as part of tools. It also held numerous medicinal qualities. There are many native birds that feast on the Kōwhai leaves and flowers.

Planting

Kōwhai can be planted anytime, but have the best chance when planted in Spring and Autumn.

Purakau

There are some stories about the Kōwhai from different iwi and hapū. One interesting fact is that it can flower before if leafs.