Kowhai (Sophora tetraptera)

Family: Fabaceae or Leguminosae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Sophora tetraptera is an evergreen Tree growing to 10 m (32ft) by 6 m (19ft) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in leaf all year, in flower in May, and the seeds ripen from September to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

None known. — Harvested fresh in season according to PFAF botanical monograph.

Habitat & North American Range

Streamsides, forest margins and lowland on North Island in New Zealand, from East Cape to latitude 40° 30's. (Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9, Zone 10)