Metrosideros thomasii is a popular, compact evergreen shrub native to New Zealand, where its larger cousin, Metrosideros excelsa, is famously known as the Pohutukawa or New Zealand Christmas Tree. This cultivar is prized for its bushy, neat growth habit and its spectacular display of vibrant, fluffy red flowers that appear in late spring and summer. The flowers are rich in nectar, making them a magnet for birds and bees. The plant features attractive, small, oval leaves that are grey-green and have a soft, felt-like texture on the underside.
Usage This resilient and visually appealing shrub is a fantastic choice for a variety of landscaping applications. Its naturally tidy and compact form makes it perfect for creating low hedges, borders, or as a structural feature in a garden bed. It is also an excellent choice for coastal gardens, as it is highly tolerant of salt spray and wind. Its dense foliage and stunning flowering display make it a great feature plant, and it can also be successfully grown in pots and containers on patios and balconies.
Care Tips
- Sunlight: Thrives in a position with full sun to partial shade. More sun will encourage a denser growth habit and a more prolific flowering display.
- Soil: Prefers well-drained soil. It is adaptable to a range of soil types, including sandy and rocky ones, which is part of its coastal resilience. Avoid heavy, clay soils that can become waterlogged.
- Watering: Water regularly during its first year to help it establish. Once mature, it is very drought-tolerant and will only require watering during extended dry periods.
- Fertilising: A light application of a slow-release native plant fertiliser in early spring is sufficient. Avoid fertilisers with high levels of phosphorus, as native plants can be sensitive to it.
- Pruning: Pruning is not essential for maintaining its shape, as it is naturally neat and compact. However, you can prune it lightly after flowering to maintain a desired size or to encourage a denser shape.
- Tolerances: It has excellent tolerance for coastal conditions, including salt spray and strong winds. It is also moderately frost-tolerant once established.
- Pests & Diseases: Generally a very hardy plant with few pest or disease issues.
