Metrosideros excelsa (Pōhutukawa)

Growing Metrosideros excelsa Successfully in NZ

To grow Metrosideros excelsa (Pōhutukawa) successfully in New Zealand, plant it in a sunny, well-drained position, and ideally in frost-free areas. This hardy evergreen thrives in poor, sandy, or rocky soils and tolerates wind, salt spray, and drought once established. Water regularly during the first year, then only during extended dry spells. Mulch annually to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Prune lightly after flowering to shape if needed. Avoid heavy frosts, especially when the plant is young.

Metrosideros excelsa Care Tips

Metrosideros excelsa prefers full sun and free-draining soil, thriving in coastal and exposed conditions. Water regularly while establishing, then only during dry spells. Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds, and feed with a slow-release fertiliser in spring. Light pruning after flowering helps maintain shape. Protect young plants from frost until well established.

Plant Size and Spacing

Metrosideros excelsa typically grows 10–20 metres tall and 8–15 metres wide when mature. For landscape use, allow at least 6–10 metres of spacing between trees to accommodate their broad canopy and extensive root system. In smaller gardens or restricted spaces, consider using dwarf or compact cultivars.

Why Buy Metrosideros excelsa from The Plant Company

The Plant Company offers premium Metrosideros excelsa (Pōhutukawa) trees, nursery-grown for quick establishment and enhanced coastal resilience. Known for stunning red summer blooms and wind tolerance, these trees are ideal for seaside gardens, erosion control, or as iconic feature plants. With expert planting guidance, fast nationwide delivery, and free shipping on larger orders, The Plant Company makes it easy to add this beloved native to your landscape with confidence.

Description of the Metrosideros excelsa leaves

The leaves of Metrosideros excelsa (Pōhutukawa) are thick, leathery, and oval-shaped, typically measuring 5-10 cm long. They have a dark green upper surface with a slight sheen and a silvery-grey, fuzzy underside due to fine hairs. The leaf edges are smooth (entire), and the texture is quite tough, helping the plant withstand strong coastal winds and salt spray. New growth often appears with a reddish or bronze tint before maturing into a green colour. These leaves not only give Pōhutukawa its rugged resilience but also contribute to its iconic, shimmering appearance, especially when the wind lifts the silvery undersides.

What is the Metrosideros excelsa growth rate?

Metrosideros excelsa (Pōhutukawa) exhibits a moderate to rapid growth rate, depending on environmental conditions. In an ideal environment (full sun, good drainage, and some shelter when young), it can grow around 30–50 cm per year. In coastal areas where it naturally thrives, it often establishes quickly, but growth can slow slightly once the tree matures. Pōhutukawa can eventually reach heights of up to 20 metres and spread widely if left unpruned, although it usually takes several decades to reach its full size. Growth tends to be faster in warm, frost-free regions and slower in cooler or exposed inland areas.