Metrosideros kermadecensis, with common names Kermadec pōhutukawa and New Zealand Christmas bush is an evergreen tree of the myrtle family which is endemic to the volcanic Kermadec Islands about 900 km north-east of New Zealand. The tree produces a brilliant display of red flowers, made up of a mass of stamens and is the dominant forest tree on Raoul Island, growing to 15 m or more. The trunk is up to 1 m or more in diameter. It is very similar to, and often confused with, the pōhutukawa of mainland New Zealand, differing mainly by having smaller, more oval leaves, and by flowering throughout the year. It also resembles the ʻōhiʻa lehua of Hawaiʻi.
Kermadecs pohutukawa is resistant to disease and is generally not susceptible to illnesses. Regarding care, this plant is fairly low maintenance. Planted outdoors it needs little watering, and larger specimens typically do not require pruning. Smaller plants, however, should be pruned after they have bloomed. Kermadecs pohutukawat is appropriate for anyone with an outdoor area, such as a garden or deck, and does not demand much experience in plant care.
How to keep Metrosideros Kermadecensis.
Light
Kermadecs pohutukawa comes from open habitats, such as sunny meadows and forest edges, which provide abundant light. It flourishes in Full Sun but can also tolerate Partial Sun, adapting well to a range of sunlight conditions.
Temperature
Kermadecs pohutukawa adapts well to temperature, able to endure higher heat and greater temperature fluctuations. In hot weather, it is important to manage watering and provide appropriate shade to avoid sunburn. However, Kermadecs pohutukawa is relatively sensitive to low temperatures. While it can tolerate some cold, excessively low temperatures can cause frost damage.
Fertilizer
Timing is important for fertilising Kermadecs pohutukawa. Apply fertilizer in early spring and continue monthly until early summer. Fertilizer aids in producing attractive blooms and supplies energy during both dormant and active growth periods.
Pruning
The Kermadec pohutukawa benefits from selective pruning, which is best done in early spring. This helps shape its growth and remove any dead wood. By maintaining an open canopy, you allow more light and air to circulate, which is beneficial for the tree. Once the tree is established, it requires minimal pruning, which promotes its overall health and encourages vibrant blooms.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Tree
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Metrosideros
- Family
- Myrtaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 9-11
- Mature Height
- 3.05 m to 10.06 m
- Mature Spread
- 2.13 m to 4.88 m
- Leaf Color
- Dark Green, Forest Green
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- Red
- Flower Size
- 2.03 cm to 3.05 cm
- Bloom Time
- Winter
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Spring
Other names.
