Pohutukawa
metrosideros excelsa
Also known as: ["New Zealand Christmas Tree","Ironwood"]
Overview
A large evergreen tree native to New Zealand, known for its vibrant red flowers that bloom in summer, resembling a mass of fireworks.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Myrtaceae |
| Genus: | Metrosideros |
| Botanical Name: | Metrosideros excelsa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: coastal gardens, rockeries, or large containers in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil mix; can use a mix of cactus soil, peat moss, and perlite.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed year-round.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate pruning to shape the plant; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for health or size control
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some protection from intense midday sun in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight; provide shade during peak summer heat; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, acidic to neutral soil mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 5.5–6.5.
Use a mix that doesn’t compact easily; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers mild temperatures, ideally 50–75°F (10–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but not frost.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly and frequently during growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or air layering; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem.
- Cut just below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light for rooting.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also use pure sphagnum moss for air layering.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone powder or gel for faster root development.
Timeline
Stem cuttings may root in 4–8 weeks; air layering can take 2–3 months to establish roots.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bag or propagator, misting bottle, rooting medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools; make cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth; also prune after flowering to promote new blooms.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/diseased wood first; shape the plant; clean up debris; monitor for new growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; gently remove plant; inspect roots; prune if needed; repot carefully; water and place in shade for recovery.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like peat moss or compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, or browning edges in extreme heat or cold; stunted growth in unfavorable conditions.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf damage or dieback; frost can be fatal.
Solution: Protect from frost with frost cloth or move indoors in winter; ensure good air circulation to prevent cold dampness.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, and dehydration, especially if combined with low humidity.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; follow dilution instructions; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and summer; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength monthly during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicMetrosideros excelsa is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicMetrosideros excelsa is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicMetrosideros excelsa, commonly known as Pohutukawa, is not considered toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why are Pohutukawa trees called the New Zealand Christmas Tree?
A: They are called the New Zealand Christmas Tree because their vibrant red flowers typically bloom around Christmas time, creating a festive appearance.
Q: Are Pohutukawa trees suitable for coastal planting?
A: Yes, Pohutukawa trees are highly tolerant of salt spray and coastal conditions, making them ideal for coastal planting.
Q: How tall can a Pohutukawa tree grow?
A: Pohutukawa trees can grow up to 15 meters tall, with a wide, spreading canopy.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Myrtaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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