Little Baby sophora care guide
Sophora prostrata
Also known as: Dwarf kowhai, Prostrate kowhai
Pets and children
Caution advised
Plants in this genus are known for alkaloids, and dogs and cats that eat the seeds in particular can vomit or get diarrhea, so keep it out of reach and contact a veterinarian (or a doctor, for a child) if eaten.
How often to water Little Baby sophora
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 4 days
- Water thoroughly once the topsoil is dry, as a guide; it dislikes both drying out and soggy soil, so check it each morning in midsummer.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 5 days
- Water about when the topsoil dries; it is growing, so do not let it get very dry.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 7 days
- Water about a day or two after the topsoil dries; left too dry, it sheds its tiny leaves.
Light and placement for Little Baby sophora
A sunny, airy spot outdoors is generally best: full sun in spring and autumn, then bright part shade away from afternoon sun and reflected heat in midsummer; indoors it tends to weaken for lack of light and air.
Overwintering Little Baby sophora
Overwintering guide: −3°C (27°F) or above
Fairly hardy: in mild regions it generally overwinters outdoors under eaves; it tolerates roughly -3°C, but shield it from hard frost and cold wind and keep the pot from freezing.
Fertilizing and repotting Little Baby sophora
Fertilizer
A small dose of slow-release fertilizer about once a month from April to June and again in September and October; none in midsummer or winter.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep), Autumn (Oct–Nov)
Common problems with Little Baby sophora
- Midsummer heat and stagnant air drop the leaves and the branches die back.
- A single missed watering sheds the tiny leaves all at once.
- In a dark room it weakens and dies back from the shoot tips.
Tips for growing Little Baby sophora
- The zigzag branching is its charm, so limit pruning to a light spring tidy-up.
- From the rainy season through summer, keep it out of the rain in an airy spot to prevent rot.
- Use a fast-draining mix and a breathable pot such as terracotta.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
