Sophora microphylla Sun King

A handsome cultivar of a New Zealand species, Sophora microphylla Sun King is a large evergreen shrub or small tree with a broad, bushy habit. The glossy, deep green leaves are divided into up to 40 pairs of small, oblong leaflets. In February and March, vivid yellow flowers, 2”/5cm long with prettily protruding anthers, are borne in short, drooping racemes. In colder areas, or where there is no room to plant a big shrub, this lovely plant can be wall-trained. Kowhai Sun King holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit.

Site: Tolerates exposure
Soil: Any light, well-drained soil
Position: Full sun
Season of interest: Late winter and early spring in particular
Hardiness: Fairly hardy
Height: 10’ (3m) Spread: 10’ (3m) as a shrub