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Metrosideros excelsa ‘Aurea’ (Yellow Pohutukawa)

Metrosideros excelsa ‘Aurea’ (Yellow Pohutukawa) is a rare and eye catching New Zealand native valued for its unusual golden yellow flowers and glossy evergreen foliage. Flowering through the warmer months, it brings a unique twist to the classic pohutukawa look while still providing strong coastal character. This variety is ideal for feature planting where something distinctive is desired. Metrosideros excelsa ‘Aurea’ is hardy, wind tolerant, and well suited to NZ conditions.

Stunning Metrosideros excelsa 'Aurea' yellow flowers amidst olive-green foliage.
Yellow Metrosideros excelsa 'Aurea' flowers amidst olive-green foliage.

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Suited to regions:Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type:Trees
Height:8.00 m
Spread:8.00 m
Flowering time:Summer
Tolerances:Coastal, Hardy, Wind
Garden uses:Hedging, Parks, Screening, Specimen
Garden styles:Backyard, Coastal, Formal, Frontyard, Japanese, Mediterranean, Native
Easy to grow?Yes
Maintenance requirementsLow
Growth rateMedium
Also known as
Sku17519

How to grow Metrosideros excelsa ‘Aurea’ (Yellow Pohutukawa) in NZ

Metrosideros excelsa ‘Aurea’ (Yellow Pohutukawa) grows best in full sun to encourage flowering and healthy growth, though it will tolerate light shade. Plant in free draining soil and choose an open position with good airflow. It performs well in coastal and warmer NZ regions and tolerates wind and salt spray once established. Water regularly during the first year to establish strong roots, then reduce watering as the plant matures.

Metrosideros excelsa ‘Aurea’ (Yellow Pohutukawa) care tips

Metrosideros excelsa ‘Aurea’ (Yellow Pohutukawa) is very low maintenance once established. Water during extended dry periods, particularly in the first few summers. Pruning is rarely required but can be carried out after flowering to manage size or shape if needed. Feeding is generally unnecessary, though a light application of slow release fertiliser in spring can support healthy growth in poorer soils.

Metrosideros excelsa ‘Aurea’ (Yellow Pohutukawa) size, spacing, and growth rate

Metrosideros excelsa ‘Aurea’ (Yellow Pohutukawa) typically grows to around 8 to 10 metres tall and approximately 6 to 8 metres wide over time. It has a moderate growth rate and forms a broad spreading canopy. Space plants at least 5 metres apart for specimen planting, or 2.5 to 3 metres apart for screening. Growth is strongest in warm sunny positions.

Landscaping uses for Metrosideros excelsa ‘Aurea’ (Yellow Pohutukawa)

Metrosideros excelsa ‘Aurea’ (Yellow Pohutukawa) is ideal for adding a unique focal point to NZ landscapes. It works well as a feature tree in large gardens, parks, and coastal properties. The yellow flowers provide contrast against traditional red pohutukawa and attract birds and pollinators. This variety suits landscapes where rarity and visual impact are important.

Why buy Metrosideros excelsa ‘Aurea’ (Yellow Pohutukawa) from The Plant Company?

The Plant Company is NZ’s most trusted plant nursery, supplying premium native plants grown for local conditions. Our Metrosideros excelsa ‘Aurea’ (Yellow Pohutukawa) plants are selected for health, structure, and unique flowering colour. We offer expert growing advice, fast nationwide delivery, and plants that establish quickly. Buying from The Plant Company ensures confidence, quality, and professional support.

Questions and Answers

Have a question about Metrosideros excelsa 'Aurea'? We are here to help.

Can you plant Metrosideros Excelso Aurea in a 50 lt pot or do they need to be in the ground.

It would be fine in a pot that size for 3-5 years. Growing it in a pot will keep it somewhat dwarfed... a bonsai effect with the roots being restricted.

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