General Notes
Drought resistant and smog tolerant. Forms areal roots that descend to the ground and take root. These can become extra trunks that provide additional support. Resistant to salt spray. A good coastal tree. Can grow taller if conditions a right.
Native to New Zealand.
Family: Myrtaceae
Synonyms
Metrosideros exelsus
Metrosideros tomentosa
Additional Common Names
NEW ZEALAND CHRISTMAS TREE, POHUTUKAWA
Tree Characteristics
Erect or Spreading with a Low Canopy.
Oval or Rounded Shape.
Has Evergreen foliage.
Height: 30 – 35 feet.
Width: 30 – 35 feet.
Growth Rate: 24 Inches per Year.
Longevity 50 to 150 years.
Leaves Oblong to Ovate, Glossy Dark Green or White, No Change, Evergreen.
Flowers Showy. Red. Flowers in Spring or Summer. Has perfect flowers (male and female parts in each flower).
Brown or Gray Capsule, Small (0.25 – 0.50 inches), fruiting in Summer or Fall.
Bark Dark Brown.
Shading Capacity Rated as Moderate to Dense in Leaf.
Litter Issue is Dry Fruit.
Tree Site Conditions & Constraints
Sunset Zones 16 – 17 and 23 – 24; H1, H2.
USDA Hardiness Zones 10 – 11.
Exposure Full Sun to Partial Shade.
Moist to Dry Soil.
Drought tolerant.
Loam or Sand Texture.
Neutral to Slightly Alkaline Soil pH.
Salinity Tolerance is Coastal Good.
Seaside Tolerance is Good in Moderate Zone.
Pests & Disease Information
Susceptible to Phytophthora and Root Rot.
Health, Safety & Environmental Concerns
Branch Strength Rated as Medium.
Root Damage Potential Rated as Moderate.
None Known Health Hazard.
Biogenic Emissions considered High.
Fire Resistance is Favorable.
Attracts Birds.
Special Uses & Values
Screen.
Hedged.
Cite this tree:
SelecTree. “Metrosideros excelsa Tree Record.” 1995-2017. May 4
2017.
< http://selectree.calpoly.edu/tree-detail/metrosideros-excelsa >
“
