Kowhai seeds — a pack of 20 seeds of New Zealand's most beloved native tree, Sophora tetraptera and S. microphylla — the iconic golden-flowering kowhai, NZ's unofficial national flower and a tree of deep cultural and ecological significance.
⚠️ IMPORTANT: All parts of the kowhai plant are poisonous if ingested. Seeds, bark, leaves, and flowers must never be eaten or taken internally. For external/topical traditional use only. Keep away from children and animals.
About kowhai
Kowhai (Sophora spp.) is one of New Zealand's most treasured native trees, famous for its spectacular cascades of bright golden-yellow flowers in late winter and spring — a vital nectar source for tūī, kererū, and bellbirds. The word kowhai is te reo Māori for yellow, and the tree holds a place of great cultural importance in Māori tradition and New Zealand identity.
This pack contains seeds of both Sophora tetraptera (the larger-leafed, more commonly cultivated form) and S. microphylla (the smaller-leafed, often more wind-hardy west coast form). Both are long-lived, ornamental trees that make a stunning addition to any NZ garden, providing year-round structure and seasonal floral spectacle.
Traditional use
Kowhai has a long history of medicinal use in Māori rongoā (traditional medicine). Infusions made from boiling the bark — traditionally taken from the sunny side of the tree — or the leaves were applied externally to cuts, wounds, skin infections, and sores. These preparations were used exclusively on the skin and never taken internally. All parts of the kowhai plant contain cytisine, a toxic alkaloid, and must never be ingested.
Growing guide
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Soil: Prefers high-fertility, free-draining soils — avoid waterlogged conditions
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Light: Full sun to partial shade
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Wind: Wind hardy once established, but provide some wind protection when young
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Drought tolerance: Reasonably drought tolerant once established
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Seed preparation: Kowhai seeds have a hard seed coat — scarify (nick or sand) or soak in hot water for 24 hours before sowing to improve germination rates
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Sowing: Sow in free-draining seed mix, keep moist, and germinate in a warm position. Transplant when seedlings are established
Important
⚠️ All parts of the kowhai plant — seeds, bark, leaves, and flowers — are toxic if ingested. Kowhai contains cytisine, a toxic alkaloid that can cause serious illness. Never eat any part of this plant or take any preparation internally. For any traditional topical use, discard after use and do not allow contact with eyes or broken skin. Keep seeds and plant material out of reach of children and animals.
