About Sophora chathamica Cockayne
Coastal kōwhai, scientifically named Sophora chathamica Cockayne, grows as a small tree reaching up to 6 metres in height and 4 metres in width. It typically flowers between August and November, producing yellow flowers that are approximately 3 cm long. Unlike many other kōwhai species, coastal kōwhai does not develop a divaricating juvenile stage when grown from seed. In cultivation, coastal kōwhai is sold at nurseries across New Zealand, and several cultivars are available. One of these cultivars is Milligold, which was selected by Duncan & Davies nursery for the new millennium; at the time of selection, it was classified as Sophora microphylla var. chathamica, the accepted classification then. Milligold grows as a small, compact tree with weeping branches, and is sometimes categorized as an evergreen.
