Name: The Plant Company
Address: 284 Meeanee Road, Meeanee, Napier, 4112, New Zealand
Telephone: 0800 843 752
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pohutukawa nz trees

Pohutukawa NZ trees are icons of coastal beauty and Kiwi identity, renowned for their dramatic red flowers and sturdy nature. Whether you’re looking to enhance your garden, preserve native biodiversity, or simply enjoy the festive bloom that signals summer, pohutukawa NZ trees offer unrivalled charm and resilience. Discover varieties suited to New Zealand’s climate and explore how these trees can transform your outdoor spaces—from coastal plantings to urban gardens.

Metrosideros excelsa (Pohutukawa) specimen tree with masses of red flowers in a coastal location.

Metrosideros excelsa (Pōhutukawa)

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.

Buy Metrosideros excelsa (Pōhutukawa)

From $26.93

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

Metrosideros kermadecensis 'variegata' red flowers and variegated foliage.

Metrosideros kermadecensis variegata (Variegated Pohutukawa)

Metrosideros kermadecensis 'Variegata' is a striking NZ native shrub or small tree admired for its glossy green leaves edged with creamy variegation. In summer, it produces vibrant red flowers that attract native birds and add spectacular colour to the garden. Hardy and evergreen, this variety performs well in a wide range of conditions, including coastal sites. Its unique foliage and seasonal blooms make it a standout choice for NZ gardens.

Buy Metrosideros kermadecensis variegata (Variegated Pohutukawa)

From $28.28

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate

Plant type: Trees

Height: 6.00 m

Spread: 4.00 m

Flowering time: Summer

Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy

Garden uses: Hedging, Parks, Ponds, Pool areas, Screening, Specimen

Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Formal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Native

Why Choose Pohutukawa NZ Trees?

Pohutukawa NZ trees are celebrated for their striking appearance and ecological benefits. Their blaze of scarlet blooms in early summer welcomes the festive season, earning them the nickname "New Zealand Christmas Tree". Their twisted trunks and leathery leaves create dramatic focal points, while their salt-tolerance makes them ideal for coastal streetscapes or seaside gardens. Homeowners, landscapers, and conservationists value pohutukawa for their hardiness and low maintenance requirements, thriving in a range of soils and conditions.

Popular Varieties for NZ Gardens

Looking for that classic crimson display or something more unique? There are several stunning varieties to consider:

The traditional Metrosideros excelsa (Pōhutukawa) is perfect for large gardens and public spaces, reaching impressive heights and offering generous shade.
For smaller spaces or colourful foliage, Metrosideros kermadecensis variegata (Variegated Pohutukawa) boasts creamy-yellow leaf margins and compact growth.
If you prefer enhanced flowering and a tidy stature, Metrosideros 'Maori Princess' delivers vivid blooms and a strong upright habit.
Gardeners seeking foliage interest might choose Metrosideros 'Kawa Copper', with copper-toned growth and rich red flowers.
For a shrub-sized option, consider Metrosideros 'Dalese', which blends the pohutukawa’s charm into hedging, screening, or smaller garden sections.

Planting & Care Tips

Pohutukawa NZ trees are straightforward to grow if you select the right spot. They flourish in well-drained soils and full sun, withstanding coastal winds and salt spray. These trees are drought-tolerant once established, and their dense foliage provides shelter and privacy. Prune only lightly and avoid disturbing roots; pohutukawa have a reputation for resilience, but young trees benefit from a little extra attention until fully established.

Benefits Beyond Beauty

Beyond their gorgeous flowers, pohutukawa NZ trees support native wildlife by providing nectar for birds and bees. Their deep roots prevent erosion along coastal cliffs, and their historic presence makes them vital for cultural and environmental restoration projects. By planting pohutukawa NZ trees, you contribute to local biodiversity while enjoying a garden filled with colour and character.

Find Pohutukawa NZ Trees for Your Garden

Browse our range of pohutukawa NZ trees to discover the perfect addition to your space. Explore classic Metrosideros excelsa (Pōhutukawa), eye-catching Metrosideros kermadecensis variegata (Variegated Pohutukawa), and innovative cultivars like Metrosideros 'Maori Princess' and Metrosideros 'Kawa Copper'. For smaller landscapes, consider Metrosideros 'Dalese'. Plant a piece of New Zealand’s heritage—and enjoy the rewards for generations.

Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.