Pohutukawa
Metrosideros excelsafam. Myrtaceae
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Pl. 4393 — Metrosideros excelsa
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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 plant thrives in full sun and moist conditions, growing up to 7 meters tall. It is known for its ornamental value due to its vibrant red flowers that bloom during summer, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscapes. Pohutukawa also has edible qualities; the nectar produced by its flowers can be enjoyed as a sweet treat. Its adaptability to light, medium, and heavy soils, along with its hardiness in zones 7-10, makes it a resilient addition to New Zealand's flora.
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 plant thrives in full sun and moist conditions, growing up to 7 meters tall.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Pohutukawa thrives in full sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in temperate regions with a range of 7-10. This tree grows up to 7 meters tall and produces nectar that is edible. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist for best growth.
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
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 43935834-cd1b-4b71-8cb1-e8c63dd927b1
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