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metrosideros excelsa nz

Metrosideros excelsa NZ, better known as Pōhutukawa, is one of New Zealand’s most iconic native trees. Renowned for its striking crimson flowers that explode in summer, Metrosideros excelsa is often called the New Zealand Christmas tree. It's celebrated along the country’s coastal fringes, providing dazzling colours, shelter, and habitat for native birds. With its gnarled branches, silvery-green foliage, and ability to withstand tough coastal conditions, Pōhutukawa is a beloved feature in gardens and landscapes throughout NZ. Whether you’re designing a native plant garden, looking for a hardy coastal shelter, or wanting to add a touch of festive magic, Metrosideros excelsa NZ is a stunning, practical choice.

Metrosideros excelsa (Pōhutukawa)

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Pōhutukawa, NZ Christmas Tree

Metrosideros excelsa, commonly known as Pōhutukawa or the New Zealand Christmas Tree, is a coastal evergreen renowned for its brilliant red flowers that bloom in early summer. Growing up to 20 metres tall, it features gnarled branches and leathery, silver-green leaves. Pōhutukawa is salt-tolerant, wind-hardy, and ideal for coastal planting, erosion control, and iconic feature trees. Its vibrant blooms and resilience make it a treasured symbol of summer and a standout in NZ landscapes.

Metrosideros excelsa (Pohutukawa) specimen tree with masses of red flowers in a coastal location.
  • Suited to regions:
    Subtropical, Temperate
  • Plant type:
    Trees
  • Height:
    10.00 m
  • Spread:
    10.00 m
  • Flowering time:
    Summer
  • Tolerances:
    Coastal, Hardy, Wind
  • Garden uses:
    Parks, Ponds, Screening, Specimen
  • Garden styles:
    Backyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Native
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Metrosideros excelsa (Pōhutukawa)

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Features of Metrosideros excelsa NZ

Metrosideros excelsa NZ is a medium to large evergreen tree, capable of reaching over 20 metres in ideal conditions, although it can be maintained as a manageable specimen in smaller gardens. The leathery leaves are silver underneath and a muted olive above, providing year-round interest. Throughout late spring and into summer, the tree turns a vibrant shade of red as thousands of brush-like flowers attract tūī, bellbirds, and bees. Pōhutukawa tolerates poor soils, sea spray, wind, and even periods of drought once established, making it ideal for exposed coastal sites.

Planting and Care

Metrosideros excelsa NZ thrives in full sun and well-drained soils. For best results, plant young trees away from frost pockets. While Pōhutukawa are naturally salt-tolerant and wind-resistant, they appreciate a mulch of compost and regular deep watering during the first dry seasons. Minimal pruning is required but can help shape young trees or manage size. Established trees rarely need extra feeding or care, rewarding you with low-maintenance beauty for decades.

Landscape Uses

Pōhutukawa are stunning as specimen trees, feature plantings along driveways, or grouped together for dramatic coastal shelterbelts. Their dense root system also helps stabilise banks and prevent erosion along coastlines. For those seeking native alternatives in a shelterbelt or native mixed garden, consider the related Metrosideros 'Lighthouse' for a more compact form, or Metrosideros kermadecensis variegata (Variegated Pohutukawa) for striking foliage contrast.

Explore More Metrosideros Varieties

Alongside Metrosideros excelsa NZ, there’s a wide range of native Metrosideros species and cultivars suitable for gardens and landscaping. Metrosideros carminea, known as the crimson rata vine, is perfect if you’re after a stunning climber. Metrosideros 'Vibrance' is valued for its compact habit and vivid flowers, while Metrosideros 'Mistral' offers even more diversity in foliage and flower. If you’re creating a mixed native garden, companion plants such as Pyrus calleryana, Gordonia yunnanensis (Gordonia), Cornus florida, Populus yunnanensis (Chinese Poplar), and Agonis flexuosa After Dark are worth considering for seasonal interest and complementary foliage.

Metrosideros excelsa NZ stands as both a national treasure and a gardener’s delight. From windswept coastal properties to urban backyards, this resilient beauty never fails to inspire with its vibrant summer bloom and strong, sculptural presence. For advice on choosing the best Pōhutukawa or related species for your region, browse our range for guidance or contact our friendly team.


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