Pohutukawa (Metrosideros excelsa) Flower, Leaf, Care, Uses

Average water needs, watering when the top 3 cm of soil has dried out.

Fertilization

Fertilization once every 2-3 months during the growing season.

Pruning

Trim the diseased, withered leaves once a month.

Soil

Sand, Loam, Clay, Acidic

Potting Suggestions

Needs excellent drainage in pots.

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Pohutukawa

Sunlight

Full sun

Hardiness Zones

10 to 11

Planting Time

Spring, Fall

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Questions About Pohutukawa

Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What is the best way to water my Pohutukawa?

Your Pohutukawa will not be too picky about how you choose to water it. As such, you can use just about any common watering tool to moisten this plant’s soil. Watering cans, hoses, and even cups will work just fine when it is time to water your Pohutukawa. Regardless of which watering tool you use, you should typically apply the water directly to the soil. In doing so, you should ensure that you moisten all soil areas equally to give all parts of the root system the water it needs. It can help to use filtered water, as tap water can contain particles that are harmful to plants. It is also beneficial to use water that is at or slightly above room temperature, as colder or hotter water can be somewhat shocking to the Pohutukawa. However, the Pohutukawa usually responds well to any kind of water you give it.

What should I do if I water my Pohutukawa too much or too little?

For outdoor plants, especially newly planted plants or plant seedlings, they can be prone to lack of watering. Remember that you need to keep watering enough for a few months when the tree is small or just planted. This is because once the roots are established, Pohutukawa can rely on rain most of the time.

When your Pohutukawa is planted in pots, overwatering is often more likely to.When you accidentally overwater your Pohutukawa, you should be prepared to remedy the situation immediately. First, you should stop watering your plant right away to minimize the effect of your overwatering. After, you should consider removing your Pohutukawa from its pot to inspect its roots. If you find that none of the roots have developed root rot, it may be permissible to return your plant to its container. If you do discover signs of root rot, then you should trim away any roots that have been affected. You may also want to apply a fungicide to prevent further damage. Lastly, you should repot your Pohutukawa in soil that is well-draining. In the case of an underwatered Pohutukawa, simply water this plant more frequently.

Underwatering is often an easy fix. If you underwater, the plant's leaves will tend to droop and dry out and fall off, and the leaves will quickly return to fullness after sufficient watering. Please correct your watering frequency as soon as underwatering occurs.

How often should I water my Pohutukawa?

Most plants that grow naturally outdoors can be allowed to grow normally with rainfall. If your area lacks rainfall, consider giving your plants adequate watering every 2 weeks during the spring and fall. More frequent watering is needed in summer. In winter, when growth becomes slower and plants need less water, water more sparingly. Throughout the winter, you may not give it additional watering at all. If your Pohutukawa is young or newly planted, then you should water more frequently to help it establish, and mature and grow up to have more adaptable and drought tolerant plants.

For potted plants, there are two main ways that you can determine how often to water your Pohutukawa. The first way is to set a predetermined watering schedule. If you choose this route, you should plan to water this plant about once every week or once every other week. However, this approach may not always work as it does not consider the unique conditions of the growing environment for your Pohutukawa .

Your watering frequency can also change depending on the season. For instance, a predetermined watering schedule will likely not suffice during summer when this plant's water needs are highest. An alternative route is to set your watering frequency based on soil moisture. Typically, it is best to wait until the first two to four inches of soil, usually ⅓ to ½ depth of the pots, have dried out entirely before you give more water.

How much water does my Pohutukawa need?

When it comes time to water your Pohutukawa, you may be surprised to find that this plant does not always need a high volume of water. Instead, if only a few inches of soil have dried since your last watering, you can support healthy growth in the Pohutukawa by giving it about five to ten ounces of water every time you water. You can also decide your water volume based on soil moisture. As mentioned above, you should note how many inches of soil have dried out between waterings. A surefire way to make sure your Pohutukawa gets the moisture it needs is to supply enough water to moisten all the soil layers that became dry since the last time you watered. If more than half of the soil has become dry, you should consider giving more water than usual. In those cases, continue adding water until you see excess water draining from your pot’s drainage holes.

If your Pohutukawa is planted in an area that gets plenty of rain outdoors, it may not need additional watering. When the Pohutukawa is young or just getting established, make sure it gets 1-2 inches of rain per week. As it continues to grow and establish, it can survive entirely on rainwater and only when the weather is hot and there is no rainfall at all for 2-3 weeks, then consider giving your Pohutukawa a full watering to prevent them from suffering stress.

How can I tell if i'm watering my Pohutukawa enough?

Overwatering is a far more common problem for the Pohutukawa, and there are several signs you should look for when this occurs. Generally, an overwatered Pohutukawa will have yellowing leaves and may even drop some leaves. Also, overwatering can cause the overall structure of your plant to shrivel and may also promote root rot. On the other hand, an underwatered Pohutukawa will also begin to wilt. It may also display leaves that are brown or brittle to the touch. Whether you see signs of overwatering or underwatering, you should be prepared to intervene and restore the health of your Pohutukawa.

How can I water my Pohutukawa at different growth stages?

When the Pohutukawa is very young, such as when it is in a seedling stage, you will need to give it more water than you would if it were at a mature age. During the early stages of this plant’s life, it is important to keep the soil consistently moist to encourage root development. The same is true for any Pohutukawa that you have transplanted to a new growing location. Also, the Pohutukawa can develop showy flowers and fruits when you give them the correct care. If your Pohutukawa is in a flowering or fruiting phase, you will likely need to give a bit more water than you usually would to support these plant structures.

How can I water my Pohutukawa through the seasons?

The seasonal changes will affect how often you water your Pohutukawa. Mainly, during the hottest summer months, you will likely need to increase how much you water this plant, especially if it grows in an area that receives ample sunlight. Strong summer sunlight can cause soil to dry out much faster than usual, meaning that you’ll need to water more frequently. By contrast, your Pohutukawa will need much less water during the winter, as it will not be in an active growing phase. During winter, you can get by with watering once every 2 to 3 weeks or sometimes not at all. For those growing this plant indoors, you should be somewhat wary of appliances such as air conditioners, which can cause your plant to dry out more quickly, which also calls for more frequent watering.

What's the difference between watering my Pohutukawa indoors vs outdoors?

In some cases, your Pohutukawa may not need any supplemental watering when it grows outside and will survive on rainwater alone. However, if you live in an area of little to no rain, you should water this plant about every two weeks. If you belong to the group of people who live out of this plant's natural hardiness zone, you should grow it indoors. In an indoor setting, you should monitor your plant's soil as it can dry out more quickly when it is in a container or when it is exposed to HVAC units such as air conditioners. Those drying factors will lead you to water this plant a bit more often than if you grew it outdoors.

Do I need to prune my Pohutukawa?

Pohutukawa, like most other evergreen trees, absolutely need to be pruned in order for them to grow as happy, healthy trees. Of course, there are lots of reasons that pruning is important, so we’ll talk about those in greater detail. Pruning opens up the inner canopy to airflow and sunlight. Without keeping these pathways open, the inner canopy will be starved of sunlight and air. Therefore, pruning your Pohutukawa is not only advantageous, but it also weakens the impact of pests and infections by separating branches from one another. These benefits are far too easy to reap with Pohutukawa to neglect them. Aside from keeping your Pohutukawa happier and healthier, pruning just makes things look nice and tidy. Who doesn’t love a well-kept tree, anyway?

When is the best time to prune my Pohutukawa?

Pohutukawa can be pruned at different times depending on whether they’re grown indoors or outdoors. For outdoor trees, pruning and trimming should be done when the tree is not actively growing; this generally falls under the colder months of winter, but can vary depending on where you live. However, if you’re growing your Pohutukawa indoors, there are lots of different times of the year when it’s okay to trim lightly. For example, if you’re planning on trimming a bit off the top of just one or two smaller branches, then you can trim nearly anytime. For heavier pruning on indoor Pohutukawa, it’s best to wait until those same colder months when outdoor Pohutukawa wouldn’t normally be actively growing. Pohutukawa should be pruned as needed. Typically, these trees should be pruned to remove any damaged, yellowing, dying, or dead foliage. It is also necessary to prune this plant to remove any shoots that are congested or are crossing.

What should I do after pruning my Pohutukawa?

In order to keep your Pohutukawa growing strong, remove any branches or debris that landed at the base of the tree. Keeping the area clear can prevent weeds and underbrush from crowding out the tree, especially if it’s young. Another great tip is to use raw, organic honey to treat large open wounds on the Pohutukawa where branches were trimmed. The use of honey prevents any pathogens or potential pests from making their way in. It’s also a good idea to water a little extra after pruning for a week or two. Providing them with a little extra water helps them build natural calluses over the exposed core faster, so they can get back to growing into large, Pohutukawa!

How can I prune my Pohutukawa: tips and techniques?

While most of the Pohutukawa won’t need to be pruned until they develop some substantial height, sometimes their branches get a little carried away in the wrong direction. This is why this part of the Pohutukawa needs to be pruned in good time. Tools In order to prune your Pohutukawa properly, you’ll need the proper pruning tools. While smaller plant shears and garden scissors may not cut it (pun intended), handheld clippers, pruners and loppers will certainly help out. For very tall branches that are out of safe reach, use a pole saw with the necessary safety equipment. It’s also a good idea to wear gloves while pruning to avoid any splinters or cuts in general. How to Prune To prune your Pohutukawa, first cut away any dead, dying or diseased branches. Look for pests, irregular growth patterns, and brittle branches or leaves. Snip these off at the branch collar, where the branch intersection is, without scoring the main branch. Next, be on the lookout for extra long branches or leaves that may not be able to support a lot of weight. These branches or leaves will be too heavy and grow downwards, so this can be trimmed back if necessary. Try to find all of the branches that grow either directly up (that are not the primary trunk) and those that grow directly downward. These branches will become an issue because they can effectively block out light and air from inner branches. Trim these back to the branches they stem from as well. If there’s not much space within the canopy for light to reach the center of the tree, you can trim away some excess foliage to make windows for light to shine in.

How many hours of sunlight does Pohutukawa need to grow?

Tropical ornamental plants that prefer full sun need a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. These plants are adapted to growing in areas with intense, direct sunlight and require this type of light to thrive. In their natural habitats, they are often found growing in open fields or along the edges of forests, where they receive ample sunlight throughout the day.

What will happen if Pohutukawa doesn’t get enough sunlight?

If tropical ornamental plants that prefer full sun do not receive enough sunlight, they may become leggy and weak. They may also develop yellow or pale leaves, and may stop producing flowers. Over time, these plants may die if they are not given the amount of direct sunlight they need.

What will happen if Pohutukawa gets too much sunlight?

While tropical ornamental plants that prefer full sun need a lot of direct sunlight, they can be damaged by too much sun. If these plants are exposed to intense sunlight for prolonged periods, they may develop sunburned leaves or brown spots. They may also become dehydrated if the soil dries out too quickly in full sun.

How can you protect Pohutukawa from excessive sunlight?

To protect tropical ornamental plants that prefer full sun from excessive sunlight, it is important to choose a location that gets plenty of direct sunlight but also has some protection from the hottest part of the day. If you are growing these plants in containers, you can move them to a more shaded location during the hottest part of the day to protect them from the sun's rays. You can also provide some shade by using a shade cloth or umbrella during the hottest part of the day.

Cautions and tips

It is important to gradually acclimate tropical ornamental plants that prefer full sun gradually to direct sunlight, especially if they have been grown indoors or in a shaded area. Start by placing the plant in direct sunlight for an hour or two each day, gradually increasing the amount of time it spends in direct sunlight over a period of several days or weeks. Be sure to keep an eye on the plant's soil moisture levels when it is exposed to full sun. These plants may require more frequent watering in full sun than they would in a more shaded location. Use a moisture meter or check the soil with your finger to determine when the plant needs to be watered.

What is the optimal temperature for Pohutukawa?

For this tropical plant to thrive, you’ll want to keep them between 75℉ and 90℉ (25-32℃). Each species can handle temperatures outside of this range, but keeping it within several degrees of these limits will ensure they grow to their maximum potential.

As for its extreme temperature limits, any environment below 50℉ (10℃) or above 95℉ (35℃) will begin to hinder its growth and cause various aberrations to its leaves and stems. This is especially true with low temperatures; even a light frost can cause your tropical plants to perish. Cellular death can begin to happen at a rapid pace, with some species dying in as little as 12 to 24 hours.

Does Pohutukawa require different temperatures for different growing phases?

While Pohutukawa doesn’t require any changes in temperature to enter different growing phases, it is important to stay consistent. Wild temperature fluctuations can slow down its growth regardless of its current phase, so it's always better to keep them in a controlled environment. That optimal temperature range of 75℉ and 90℉ (25-32℃) is vital to maintain, especially staying above the lower limit. Going above 90℉(32℃) isn’t ideal, but as tropical plant it won’t suffer too much. On the other hand, going below 50℉ (10℃) (and especially 40℉/5℃) will begin to directly damage this heat-loving plant species.

Does Pohutukawa need different temperatures for different seasons?

Pohutukawa does not need different temperatures for different growing seasons. The most important step in seasonal care is to keep the environment within the optimal temperature range. That's why it's always best to keep this plant indoors. That way, you can control the temperature no matter what the climate is like outside.

Light is also important for tropical species, with all of these plants preferring a partial side level of sun exposure. This means any light they receive needs to be dappled or filtered, with bright but indirect light being the best option when growing your plants indoors. Too much direct sunlight can negatively affect your plant’s leaves, reducing its growth potential.

What are the temperature guidelines to keep your Pohutukawa healthy?

Tip #1: Don’t Leave Your Plant Near Windows in Colder Months

If you want to make sure your plant isn’t exposed to colder temperatures, you may want to keep them away from windows. In colder months like late fall and winter, even the smallest draft can leak cold air into your home through cracks in your windows. While this air usually dissipates and warms up as it travels throughout your home, any plants placed in close proximity to the window will be affected. Move your tropical plants into an area where they will still get bright but indirect light, while making sure they won’t be affected by potential drafts.

Tip #2: If You Find Dry Patches, Your Plant May Be Getting Too Much Sunlight or Heat

You may notice the leaves become white or even scorched on a sunny day. These discolorations and unusual markings usually indicate that a plant is getting too much heat or sunlight, and it may be dehydrated. Excess light and heat will dry out the soil, stopping plants from getting the moisture they need to support their cellular structure. It also slows down or stops the process of photosynthesis, further hindering growth. If ignored for too long, these dry spots can spread and eventually result in the death of your plants.

Tip #3: Avoid Frost at All Costs

Colder temperatures and frost can damage your plants by causing ice crystals or disrupt normal physiological activity. This makes it nearly impossible for water to move freely throughout plant tissue, creating a deficit of moisture in their stems and leaves. You can tell a plant has been damaged by frost if it begins to suffer from hydrosis (it will appear as though it's soaked with water.) If the problem persists, your plants may begin shriveling and turning a dark brown or black hue. After that, the plant will almost certainly die.

What is the best way to maintain the right temperature for my Pohutukawa?

The best way to maintain the right temperature range for Pohutukawa is by keeping an eye on both the climate and humidity. You’ll want to try to keep each species in a room where you have access to climate control, keeping the heat in the temperature range best mimics its natural habitat. The humidity levels will also have a direct effect on temperature, so it's important to monitor these as well. You can artificially raise the humidity of your growing space by using a humidifier or lightly misting the leaves with water.

If you intend to grow this species outside, you may find it difficult to maintain the right balance of temperature and humidity. If temperatures begin to drop or the air becomes too dry, your best option is to find room within your home and move your plant inside. An indoor growing space will allow you to control the climate more closely, helping your plant reach its full potential.

Why do I need to fertilize my Pohutukawa?

Fertilization is important to a Pohutukawa overall health and well-being. With the proper supply of energy and nutrients, your Pohutukawa will develop a healthy array of foliage while also producing a set of sturdy stems and branches.

However, it is the flowers of a Pohutukawa that are often most valuable to the gardeners who grow them. Fortunately, fertilization also helps this plant produce flowers that are large, vibrant, and long-lasting. The reason for this is that the right kind of fertilizer will make it much easier for your Pohutukawa to transfer fuel from its roots through its stems to its flowers. Proper fertilization also keeps this plant's health in good general condition, making it better able to fight off diseases.

When is the best time to fertilize my Pohutukawa?

The main time of year when you should fertilize a Pohutukawa is during the early spring when your plant is exiting its dormant phase and preparing to open its buds. Feeding at this time will give your Pohutukawa plenty of available energy to use to support its overall growth and flower development, but this is not the only time that it is a good idea to feed this plant.

An additional feeding at the end of the season during the fall months can also benefit this plant, although this second feeding does not need to be as large as the first one. Also, some gardeners choose to fertilize their Pohutukawa while they are planting it, but this is not always necessary.

When should I avoid fertilizing my Pohutukawa?

As is the case for many plants, you do not need to fertilize your Pohutukawa during the winter. In winter, a Pohutukawa will be in a dormant phase, which means it does not need to gain much energy from the soil to develop new growth. Fertilizing during winter makes it much more likely that the negative outcomes of overfertilization will occur.

The two main feeding times for a Pohutukawa are during the early spring and the fall. That means that during most of the spring and summer, this plant will not need fertilizer. It is also wise to hold off on feedings if your plant is experiencing excessively hot or dry conditions for whatever reason.

What type of fertilizer does my Pohutukawa need?

While it is often alright to use a general-purpose fertilizer that has even ratios of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, Pohutukawa plants often do best when they receive a specific type of fertilizer. In most instances, the most important nutrients for a Pohutukawa are nitrogen and phosphorus, which is why they should appear in higher volumes in the fertilizer you use compared to the potassium content.

A fertilizer that has an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-8 or something similar should work well. However, it can also be beneficial to apply an organic material such as compost for at least one of your annual feedings. If you choose to use fertilizer, it is most common to use granular fertilizer for a Pohutukawa.

How do I fertilize my Pohutukawa?

Applying fertilizer for your Pohutukawa is a quite straightforward task that any gardener can perform, even those with minimal experience. To feed your Pohutukawa with granular fertilizer, all you need to do is sprinkle the fertilizer on the soil. However, before you do so, make sure that you moisten the soil with water.

Additionally, you can also amend your Pohutukawa plant's soil by adding an organic material like compost or manure. If you want to incorporate one of those amendments into your soil, you should place some of the material on top of the soil. Then use a hand rake to gently work the material into the first few inches of soil without disturbing the roots.

What happens if I fertilize my Pohutukawa too much?

There are several negative outcomes that will occur if your regularly overfertilize your Pohutukawa. First, when you give one of these plants too much fertilizer, you can expect to see leaf discoloration and perhaps some wilting. Excessive fertilization can also lead to fertilizer burn, which will dry out the roots, making them ineffective.

However, the threats of overfertilization do not end there for the Pohutukawa. If you feed one of these plants too much, it may show a lack of flowers or bloom with flowers that are a bit lackluster. Also, an overfertilized Pohutukawa will be weaker overall, show stunted growth, and is more vulnerable to diseases and pest infestations.

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Feng shui direction

Southeast

The pohutukawa is thought to harmonize splendidly with the Southeast facing direction, as per Feng Shui principles. This is due to the plant's vibrant red flowers, which align with the Southeast's element - Wood. Ultimately, the pohutukawa's compatibility is based on personal interpretation and application of Feng Shui concepts.

Water

Every 1-2 weeks

Lighting

Full sun

The pohutukawa flourishes under a copious presence of sunlight. This light requirement facilitates its healthy growth and development. Despite its native habitat, illuminated open spaces, it does not depend on scattered or minimal sunlight. Too much exposure or limited light might detrimentally impact its growth.

Temperature

5 43 ℃

The pohutukawa is native to coastal areas of New Zealand and prefers a temperature range of 68 to 100 ℉ (20 to 38 ℃). In the winter, it is suggested to keep the plant in a cooler room or near a slightly open window to encourage bud formation. During the summer, it may benefit from some afternoon shade to prevent burning.

Transplant

6-8 feet

The ideal transplanting season for pohutukawa is during S1-S3, or cooler, less active growth periods for optimal root establishment. The plant thrives in locations with good sun exposure and well-drained soils. When transplanting, remember to water thoroughly and regularly, until your pohutukawa establishes in its new home.

Pollination

Normal

Buzzing bees form the backbone of pohutukawa's intriguing pollination. They are enticed by the plant's vibrant crimson flowers and nectar-rich center. Pohutukawa's open-flowering system permits proactive bee interaction, enhancing pollination success. Pohutukawa's timing of flowering coincides with increased bee activity during the warmer months, ensuring a thriving and vibrant display of this extraordinary plant year after year.

Overwinter

20 ℃

Pohutukawa thrives in its native warm New Zealand climate, with lush foliage resilient to milder winters. It copes effortlessly with salty winds and rocky soils. In colder climates, winter can be tough; pohutukawa requires a sheltered location and fleece protection during frosty spells. Pruning should occur from late winter to early spring to encourage new vibrant growth. Remember, pohutukawa's overall winter strategy is survival, not growth.

Osteospermum ecklonis, commonly known as cape marguerite, is an evergreen, perennial small shrub with typical daisy-shaped white or purple flowers. It is cultivated as an ornamental in containers and borders. Flowers of this lovely plant are often visited by bees and other pollinators.

Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for Pohutukawa based on 10 million real cases

Brown spot

This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.

Solutions: In minor cases of brown spot, there isn’t any need to treat the disease. However, if much of the foliage is affected and defoliation occurs, the plant will benefit from getting rid of the infection. It is recommended to start by applying organic treatment options, working up to the more potent synthetic, chemical fungicides if necessary. Organic options won’t kill the fungus, but will prevent it from spreading. Dissolve ½ teaspoon of baking soda and one teaspoon of liquid soap in a gallon of water. Using a spray bottle, spray on tops and bottoms of leaves until the mixture drips off. Repeat every two weeks until existing spots stop enlarging and new spots no longer appear. Spray a copper-based fungicidal soap on the leaves, coating the top and bottom leaf surfaces. Reapply as directed on the product label. Copper penetrates the leaf surface and prevents germination of spores so the fungus cannot spread. Apply an all-purpose fungicide to the entire plant, following the label instructions carefully.

Flower withering

Flowers may dry out due to a sudden change in environment or because the plant has completed its normal flowering period.

Solutions: If flower withering is a natural progression due to age, there is nothing that can be done to slow or stop the process. Once hormones within the plant begin the process of senescence, it’s irreversible. For lack of water, immediately water the plant using room temperature rainwater, bottled spring water, or filtered tap water. Water container plants until excess water drains out the bottom; water in-ground plants until the soil is soaked but there isn’t standing water on the surface. In the event of nutritional deficiencies, the best solution is to use a granular or water-soluble liquid fertilizer, and apply it to the soil at about half the recommended dosage. Keep it off the leaves and make sure granular products are watered into the soil well. If the plant is infected with a bacterial or fungal pathogen, there is no course of treatment that cures the diseased plants. The best solution is to remove the infected plants and dispose of the plant material off-site. Do not put in a compost pile.

Leaf scorch

Leaf blight causes leaves to dry out and turn brown starting at their tips.

Solutions: The solution to leaf scorch will depend on the cause, however, in general all cultural care methods that improve plant health and root functionality will reduce symptoms. Mulching the root zone (preferably with wood chip mulch) helps retain moisture, reduce evaporation, and promotes a healthy, functional root environment that is critical for water movement to the leaves. Check the root collar for girdling or circling roots that strangle the trunk and limit water and nutrient movement. Protect trees from severe root damage of nearby construction and excavation. If fertilizer burn is to blame, irrigate the soil deeply to flush out excess fertilizer salts. However, keep in mind that fertilizer runoff is an environmental pollutant. Avoiding excess fertilization in the first place is the best approach. If soil testing has revealed a potassium deficiency, apply a potassium fertilizer and water well. Even if you have enough potassium in the soil, plants will not be able to take it up if the soil is consistently too dry. Severely affected twigs may be removed using a pair of sharp and sanitized pruning shears, as weakened branches are susceptible to secondary infections. If your plant has bacterial leaf scorch, there is no cure. Antibiotic injections applied by a professional can reduce symptoms for a season, however, the above cultural management methods are the best options to reduce symptoms and prolong life. An infected plant will likely die within ten years.

Underwatering

Leaves may wilt for a variety of reasons.

Solutions: The easiest (and most obvious) way to address underwatering is to fully hydrate the plant. However, this must be done carefully. A common mistake that many gardeners make is to douse their underwatered plants with water. This can overwhelm the roots of the plant and shock its system, something that can be even more damaging than the lack of water to begin with. Instead, water thoroughly and slowly, taking breaks to let the water slowly saturate through the soil to get to the roots. Use room temperature water, as cold water might be too much of a shock. In the future, shorten the time between waterings. A good rule of thumb is to check the soil around each plant daily. If it’s dry to at least two inches down, it’s time to water. If a container plant is repeatedly drying out very quickly, repotting into a slower-draining container might be a good idea, too.

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Distribution Map

Habitat

Coastal forests

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info

Flower Color

Red

Bloom Time

Summer

Leaf Color

Green

Name story

Iron tree

The genus name of Metrosideros excelsa is derived from the Greek words for "heartwood" and "iron," earning it the name, pohutukawa. The specific name, excelsa, meanwhile is Latin, meaning "highest" or "sublime," a testament to how well-regarded the pohutukawa tree is.

Usages

Garden Use

Pohutukawa is a wide-spreading tree valued for its striking red blossoms that contain prominent, spikey flowers. It is considered festive and its blossoms remind people of the holidays. Pohutukawa is suited for Mediterranean and coastal gardens, and can be planted as a screen or as a hedge. It also helps with erosion control, making it an ornamental and functional garden species.

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Class

Order

Family

Genus

Species

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Garden Usage

Red maple

The red maple is a common North American tree with distinctive red leaves and flower buds. Its sap can be made into maple syrup and the wood is good for furniture. Though non-toxic to humans, the leaves are very toxic to horses. According to the U.S. Forest Service, red maple is the most common tree in eastern North America.

The Maple is a plant of the genus Acer. The red maple is mainly used as a landscape tree because of its beautiful leaf color changes and elegant shape. The leaf color can change dramatically; colors include yellow, green, red, orange, pink, and purple. The red maple is often used as a garden shrub or as a potted plant.

Spring

Garden Usage

Cotton fruit

Cotton fruit is a fast-growing fruit tree. It is commonly cultivated and the popular fruits are widely seasonally available in both local and international markets. There are two varieties that produce either yellow or red fruits. These varieties were once thought to be two distinct species. The fruit has various uses in Asian cuisine, however, care should be taken not to swallow the whole seeds for the risk of intestinal obstruction and perforation.

Mid winter, Late winter, Early spring

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Most Common Tree

Plant Collection Most Common Tree White mulberry See More A unique and easy-to-grow edible landscaping plant, the White mulberry is prized for its tasty fruits as well as its exquisite ornamental appeal. Originally native to China, this plant was valued for its role in silk production: silkworms will only eat the leaves of White mulberryContinue reading “Most Common Tree”

Plant Collection Best Perennial Plant to Grow Orange daylily See More The Orange daylily is a perennial plant known for its captivating lily-like blooms. Its natural habitats are meadows and forests, but it is also a common garden plant in temperate regions around the world. Each individual flower lasts only a day, but the plantContinue reading “Best Perennial Plant to Grow”

Plant Collection Suggested Plants to Build a Garden That Blooms All the Year Round Bearded iris See More BloomTime:Spring The Bearded iris is a flowering plant that appears in many different colors. It is a popular garden plant because it’s easy to grow. Though their native lands are in Europe, Bearded irises are often grownContinue reading “Suggested Plants to Build a Garden That Blooms All the Year Round”

Plant Collection Best Perennial Plant to Grow China rose See More The China rose (Rosa chinensis) is a Southwest China native. The plant has been cultivated for so long that it has become hard to tell the difference between wild and cultivated varieties. With medium-sized clusters of flowers and a long blooming season, it isContinue reading “Best Perennial Plant to Grow”

Most Common Tree

Average water needs, watering when the top 3 cm of soil has dried out.

Plant Collection Suggested Plants to Build a Garden That Blooms All the Year Round White mulberry See More BloomTime:Spring A unique and easy-to-grow edible landscaping plant, the White mulberry is prized for its tasty fruits as well as its exquisite ornamental appeal. Originally native to China, this plant was valued for its role in silkContinue reading “Suggested Plants to Build a Garden That Blooms All the Year Round”

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Pohutukawa

Metrosideros excelsa

Also known as: Southern rata hybrid

Another name for pohutukawa (Metrosideros excelsa) is an evergreen tree native to New Zealand with showy flowers that look like crimson bottlebrushes. If you take good care of it, this tree will last ten years.

Planting Time

Spring, Fall

Care Guide for Pohutukawa

Water

Fertilization

Fertilization once every 2-3 months during the growing season.

Pruning

Trim the diseased, withered leaves once a month.

Soil

Sand, Loam, Clay, Acidic

Potting Suggestions

Needs excellent drainage in pots.

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Questions About Pohutukawa

Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What is the best way to water my Pohutukawa?

What should I do if I water my Pohutukawa too much or too little?

How often should I water my Pohutukawa?

How much water does my Pohutukawa need?

How can I tell if i'm watering my Pohutukawa enough?

How can I water my Pohutukawa at different growth stages?

How can I water my Pohutukawa through the seasons?

What's the difference between watering my Pohutukawa indoors vs outdoors?

Do I need to prune my Pohutukawa?

When is the best time to prune my Pohutukawa?

What should I do after pruning my Pohutukawa?

How can I prune my Pohutukawa: tips and techniques?

How many hours of sunlight does Pohutukawa need to grow?

What will happen if Pohutukawa doesn’t get enough sunlight?

What will happen if Pohutukawa gets too much sunlight?

How can you protect Pohutukawa from excessive sunlight?

Cautions and tips

What is the optimal temperature for Pohutukawa?

Does Pohutukawa require different temperatures for different growing phases?

Does Pohutukawa need different temperatures for different seasons?

What are the temperature guidelines to keep your Pohutukawa healthy?

What is the best way to maintain the right temperature for my Pohutukawa?

Why do I need to fertilize my Pohutukawa?

When is the best time to fertilize my Pohutukawa?

When should I avoid fertilizing my Pohutukawa?

What type of fertilizer does my Pohutukawa need?

How do I fertilize my Pohutukawa?

What happens if I fertilize my Pohutukawa too much?

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More About How-Tos

Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for Pohutukawa based on 10 million real cases

Brown spot

This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.

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Flower withering

Flowers may dry out due to a sudden change in environment or because the plant has completed its normal flowering period.

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Leaf scorch

Leaf blight causes leaves to dry out and turn brown starting at their tips.

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Underwatering

Leaves may wilt for a variety of reasons.

Learn More

Treat and prevent plant diseases.

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Distribution Map

Habitat

Coastal forests

Map

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info

Flower Color

Red

Bloom Time

Summer

Leaf Color

Green

Name story

Iron tree

Usages

Garden Use

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Class

Order

Family

Genus

Species

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# Useful Tips