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Shrubs
Sophora Sun King ('Hilsop')
kowhai [Sun King]
A bushy evergreen shrub with pinnate leaves composed of up to 40 pairs of small oblong leaflets, and yellow pea-type flowers 5cm in length in short racemes in late winter and early spring
Synonyms
Sophora 'Hilsop'Sophora microphylla 'Hilsop'
see moreSophora microphylla 'Sun King'
Sophora 'Sun King'
Sophora microphylla Sun King
Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
10–20 yearsUltimate spread
1.5–2.5 metresGrowing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Yellow | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Yellow | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or North–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- Potentially harmful
- Harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets (dogs): Harmful if eaten - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
- Genus
Sophora are deciduous or evergreen trees and shrubs with pinnate leaves and pea-like flowers, sometimes fragrant, in racemes or panicles
- Name status
Trade
How to grow
Cultivation
Easy to grow in moderately fertile soil in full sun
Propagation
Propagate by grafting in late winter
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Coastal
- Cottage and informal garden
- City and courtyard gardens
- Flower borders and beds
- Wall side borders
Pruning
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)
Get involved
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