Photo of Sophora microphylla 'Sun King' flower by Joshua McCullough

Photo by Joshua McCullough

Used with permission, all rights reserved

Show all photos

Buy Sophora microphylla 'Sun King'

Scientific Name: Sophora microphylla 'Hilsop'

Also Known As

  • Kowhai

Plant type

tree, shrub

size

  • H: 6'-30'
  • W: 6'-20'

planting zones

  • 8b-10b

4" | $23

Ships USPS, based on weight/location

Fewer than 14 at Secret Garden Growers

More Options

Sophora microphylla 'Sun King' plant details

Sophora microphylla 'Sun King' is a broadleaf evergreen shrub or tree with green foliage. In spring yellow flowers emerge. Attracts hummingbirds. Grows well with sun - bright shade and regular water. Does well in well-drained soil.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Sophora microphylla 'Sun King'

Plant type: shrub or tree
Plant family: fabaceae
Foliage: evergreen green
Mature size: 6 FT - 20 FT - wide, 6 FT - 30 FT - tall
Flowers: yellow blooms in spring
Uses: vase-shaped

GROWING CONDITIONS for Sophora microphylla 'Sun King'

USDA Zones: 8b - 10b
Sun exposure: sun - bright shade
Watering frequency: regular
Soil needs: well-drained

We independently publish plant data to search multiple nurseries at once. We may earn a commission on qualifying purchases when you buy through our links.

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

This Hillier's introduction is hardier than either of its parents, withstanding temperatures in the upper teens °F. Striking, vase-shaped shrub to 6' or so, loaded with large, luscious, bell-shaped, golden pea flowers over a long late spring bloom period. Evergreen foliage is dark, the leaves pinnate and fine-textured. Sun with average summer water. Frost hardy in USDA zone 8.

Gardening facts about Sophora microphylla 'Sun King' plant

How to Grow Sophora microphylla 'Sun King'

  • Sun Exposure

    • sun - bright shade
  • Water Needs

    • regular
  • Soil Needs

    • well-drained

Features

  • Foliage Color

    • green
  • Flower Color

    • yellow
  • Wildlife

    • hummingbirds
  • Flower Season

    • spring
  • Foliage Season

    • evergreen

Landscape groups by tags

See other plant types of Sophora for your garden

aka Calia secundiflora, Mescal Bean, Texas Mountain Laurel

Plant Type

Tree, Shrub

Zones

7a-10b

Size

Height: 15'-25'

Width: 5'-15'

  • sun - bright shade
  • drought tolerant
Photo of Sophora secundiflora fruit by Danger Garden
View Plant

Plant Type

Shrub

Zones

8a-11

Size

Height: 3'-7'

Width: 2'-3'

  • sun - dappled shade
  • regular - occasional
Photo of Sophora prostrata 'Little Baby' flower by Cistus Nursery
View Plant

More Options

Plant Type

Tree

Zones

8a-11

Size

Height: 15'-30'

Width: 15'-30'

  • sun - shade
  • even moisture - regular
Photo of Sophora cassioides flower by Annie's Annuals & Perennials
View Plant

aka Kowhai

Plant Type

Tree, Shrub

Zones

8a-11

Size

Height: 30'

Width: 15'

  • sun - bright shade
Photo of Sophora tetraptera flower by Velela
View Plant

More Options

aka Baptisia villosa, Sophora villosa, Thermopsis caroliniana, Aaron's Rod, Blue Ridge Buckbean, Carolina Bushpea, Carolina Lupine

Plant Type

Perennial

Zones

3b-10a

Size

Height: 3'-5'

Width: 2'-3'

  • sun - mostly shade
  • even moisture - regular
Photo of Thermopsis villosa flower by Far Reaches Farm
View Plant

More Options

+15 more Sophora
Mailing List
Sign Up for updates on new plant arrivals and deals

© 2010—2026 Plant Lust, LLC All Rights Reserved