Godley's kōwhai facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Godley's kōwhai |
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S. godleyi
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| Sophora godleyi Heenan & de Lange
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Godley's kōwhai (scientific name: Sophora godleyi) is a beautiful tree from New Zealand. It is also called papa kōwhai or Rangitikei kōwhai. This tree grows naturally in the western part of the North Island, from Te Kuiti down to Manawatu.
It is one of eight types of kōwhai trees. Scientists officially named it a separate species in 2001. Before that, people thought it was part of the small-leaved kōwhai group. The tree is named after Dr. Eric Godley, who was an important scientist in New Zealand.
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What Godley's Kōwhai Looks Like
Godley's kōwhai is known for its graceful, weeping shape. Its branches hang down, and its leaves are a lovely grey-green color. This tree can grow quite tall, reaching about 25 meters (about 82 feet).
Around October and November, the tree bursts with bright yellow flowers. This makes it one of the most stunning native trees in New Zealand.
How We Protect Godley's Kōwhai
Scientists in New Zealand use a special system to check if plants and animals are safe. It is called the New Zealand Threat Classification System. In 2012, Godley's kōwhai was listed as "not threatened." This means it is not in danger of disappearing, and its status remains good today.
Growing Godley's Kōwhai
You can easily grow Godley's kōwhai from its seeds. Many garden centers sell these plants. There are also special types of Godley's kōwhai that people have grown for gardens. These are called 'cultivars'. Two well-known cultivars are 'Goldies Mantle' and 'Ohingaiti'.
'Goldies Mantle' Cultivar
- The 'Goldies Mantle' cultivar was chosen by a person named John Goldie. He worked at a research center in Levin, New Zealand.
- This plant came from a parent tree growing near Ohingaiti (which is close to Taihape).
- 'Goldies Mantle' grows into an attractive grey-green tree. It has many yellow flowers in the spring. It can grow to be 5 meters (about 16 feet) or taller.
- Sometimes, it is still sold under its older name, Sophora microphylla 'Goldies Mantle'.
'Ohingaiti' Cultivar
- The 'Ohingaiti' cultivar also came from the Ohingaiti area.
- It is very similar to 'Goldies Mantle'. However, it keeps the beautiful weeping branches that the original Godley's kōwhai tree is famous for.
