Description
Sophora tetraptera, commonly known as kōwhai, is a native New Zealand tree renowned for its vibrant yellow flowers. Reaching up to 10 meters in height, it thrives in coastal and lowland forests, often along riverbanks. The tree features dark green, pinnate leaves and produces large, pendulous clusters of bright yellow flowers in early spring, which are highly attractive to native birds like tūī and bellbirds. Sophora tetraptera is valued for its ornamental beauty, wood, and cultural significance, with its bark and roots traditionally used in Māori medicine. It plays a vital role in ecosystem restoration and biodiversity enhancement.
