Pohutukawa
Metrosideros excelsafam. Myrtaceae
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Pl. 4393 — Metrosideros excelsa
Metrosideros excelsaMetrosideros excelsaMetrosideros excelsaMetrosideros excelsaMetrosideros excelsaMetrosideros excelsaMetrosideros excelsaMetrosideros excelsaMetrosideros excelsaMetrosideros excelsaMetrosideros excelsaMetrosideros excelsaMetrosideros excelsaMetrosideros excelsa
IOverview
Overview
Pohutukawa, scientifically known as Metrosideros excelsa and belonging to the Myrtaceae family, is a native tree of New Zealand's North Island. This tree thrives in full sun and moist conditions, growing up to 7 meters tall. Pohutukawa is known for its ornamental value, with vibrant red flowers that bloom during summer, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscapes. The nectar produced by its flowers is edible and can be enjoyed directly or used in various preparations, typically consumed raw or as a sweetener in beverages. Pohutukawa is adaptable to light, medium, and heavy soils and is hardy in zones 7-10, making it a resilient addition to New Zealand's flora. Its introduction to the Azores, Madeira, Norfolk Island, and Tristan da Cunha further highlights its versatility and appeal. While the tree is not medicinal, its nectar provides a delightful natural sweetener.
Quick answers
What is Pohutukawa?
Pohutukawa, scientifically known as Metrosideros excelsa and belonging to the Myrtaceae family, is a native tree of New Zealand's North Island. This tree thrives in full sun and moist conditions, growing up to 7 meters tall.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Pohutukawa (Metrosideros excelsa) thrives in full sun and requires moist, well-draining soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in temperate regions, growing to a height of 7 meters. Propagate through cuttings. For optimal growth, ensure the plant receives ample water and is planted in a location with plenty of sunlight.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
7-10
Mature size
7.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Pohutukawa for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, full-sun planting in well-draining soil for your first pohutukawa experience.
- 1
What you'll need
Pohutukawa saplings or seeds, potting mix if using containers.
- 2
Best time to plant
Spring is ideal for planting in the ground; any season works for pots.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a mix of light (sandy), medium, or heavy clay soils. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant saplings directly into the ground or pots. For seeds, start indoors 8-10 weeks before planting outdoors.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Place in a sunny spot.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and regular watering, especially during dry spells. Prune lightly after flowering.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Focus on pruning for shape and health; flowers can be enjoyed but are not typically harvested.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay without drainage, neglecting to prune regularly.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Nectar
Edible uses: The nectar of the Pohutukawa tree (Metrosideros excelsa) is edible and can be enjoyed directly or used in various preparations. It is typically consumed raw, either by itself or as a sweetener in beverages. Skip
Other uses:HedgerowLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
1 native · 4 introduced
Distribution
1 native · 4 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 1 native· 4 introduced
Europe1 region
introduced (1)Portugal
Broader regions
native:New Zealand North
introduced:Norfolk Is., Tristan da Cunha
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Myrtaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Myrtaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
Native to
XII
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