Tribe Sophoreae Rank Species | ||
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Similar Sophora longicarinata, Sophora fulvida, Sophora chathamica, Sophora molloyi, Sophora masafuerana | ||
Sophora godleyi, also known as Godley's kōwhai, papa kōwhai or Rangitikei kōwhai, grows naturally in the west of the North Island of New Zealand from Te Kuiti to the Manawatu. It is one of eight recognised species of Kowhai and was described as a separate species in 2001, having formerly been considered to be part of species small-leaved kōwhai. It is named after Dr. Eric Godley, former head of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) Botany Division.
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Description
S. godleyi has a weeping habit with long pendulous branches and grey-green foliage, and can grow to height of about 25 metres. There is a profusion of yellow flowers around October/November making it one of the finest of New Zealand's native trees.
Conservation
Using the New Zealand Threat Classification System as a guide, S. godleyi was rated in 2012 as being "not threatened", a status the tree has held since being recognised as a separate species.
Cultivation
In horticulture it is possible to purchase 'regular' S. godleyi plants and it grows easily from seed. There are also at least two known cultivars, S. godleyi 'Goldies Mantle' and S. godleyi 'Ohingaiti'.