Metrosideros excelsa

Metrosideros excelsa is a tall tree that grows on the volcanic coasts of New Zealand where it is called pohutukawa, which can be translated as "splashed by the sea". It is appreciated for its brilliant flowering, with large clusters of scarlet stamens, which are highlighted by its tough foliage of a beautiful grey-green colour. Metrosideros makes a magnificent subject to be planted in a large pot on a terrace or even indoors in cold climates. It will remain relatively small, reaching a height of no more than 2 m (6 ft 7 in) and a width of 1 m (3 ft 4 in).

Metrosideros excelsa (synonym Metrosideros tomentosus) belongs to the Myrtaceae family, along with myrtles, eucalyptus, and callistemons. The genus name, Metrosideros, comes from the Greek "metra" (meaning "the heart of a tree") and "sideros" ("iron"), alluding to the hardness of the wood of these bushes. Its vernacular name of New Zealand Christmas Tree originates from its flowering period, which occurs around Christmas time in its country of origin. There, this tall and beautiful tree with an umbrella-like habit can reach heights of up to 20 m (65 ft 7 in). It is a plant that prefers acidic to neutral soil and dislikes the presence of limestone.

Its vegetation is naturally dense and its growth is slow. Its bark, rather corky, is grey-brown in colour. Over the years, aerial roots may appear at the base of the very sturdy trunk as well as along its length and on the knotty branches. This characteristic is evidence of an adaptation to an epiphytic lifestyle, with Metrosideros sometimes growing in nature much like ivy, clinging to other trees to reach the light. The branches bear entire, ovate, tough, slightly undulate leaves that are dark green in colour, almost white and downy on the underside. They measure 8-10 cm (3.1-3.9 in) long and 2-3 cm (0.8-1.2 in) wide. Flowering occurs from May to July, and its timing may vary depending on the climate. At the tips of the branches, clusters of beautiful flowers appear, composed of numerous 3 cm (1.2 in) long red, very conspicuous stamens, forming large scarlet pompons. They are very nectar-rich and attract certain birds and numerous pollinating insects. The seeds take a year to mature. The root system of this plant is well developed, and over time some aerial roots may sink into the ground, forming a small tree with multiple trunks.

This Metrosideros is a magnificent bush, to be grown as a conservatory plant, where it will live for many years. In a greenhouse or conservatory, it will create an extremely decorative quartet with an orange tree, a Tibouchina, or a mimosa, evoking landscapes with exotic charms and scents. To complete an exotic decor, also consider palm trees, Banksia integrifolia, and callistemons. It is not afraid of strong winds or salt, and tolerates drought well.