The Pohutukawa is not just attractive but also considered to be sacred in the Māori culture and good for the environment. It has twisted trunk, silver-green leaves, and bright red blossoms. You can see them holding onto cliffs and along the NZ coasts.
Gardeners and landscapers who want to plant this iconic tree in their garden can visit the online That Plant Company in NZ. You can browse their huge selection of plants with their plant finder tool to determine which ones to buy including Pohutukawa varieties. If you are looking to create a coastal garden or want a tough, decorative tree, their platform will give you access to plethora of options suitable for New Zealand gardens or parks.
The Classic Coastal Tree
The most popular variety is the coastal Pohutukawa (Metrosideros excelsa). It grows in sandy soils and can very well handle the seashore environment. The tree is as tall as 20 meters and can be found clinging firmly to the edges of cliffs.
Its bright red flowers are also attractive to native species of birds such as tui and kereru, so are a great value to biodiversity gardens. Metrosideros excelsa can be used in large scale landscape, unrestricted places like the parks and restoration of the shores.
Dwarf & Short varieties
The dwarf types of Pohutukawa have the same seasonal appearance available with a more palatable size in smaller gardens or urban areas. Most species, such as Mistral or Springfire are around 2 to 4 meters tall with bushy foliage and very bright flowers.
Small trees are ideal for container growing, courtyard gardens or mixed native borders, especially as feature trees. Besides, they are more convenient to take care of and cut off because of their smaller size.
Hybrids, and Color Variations
Although the most visible color of Pohutukawa flowers is bright red, but there exist some hybrid varieties that introduce minor changes into its color. Darker-crimson or even pinkish-colored cultivars have been developed to provide diversity in indigenous plant palettes.
You will also find hybrids that are more resistant to diseases, or more suited to inland conditions. This increases the scope of the areas to plant in, other than along the coast.
Cultural & Environmental Significance
Other than being just ornamental these trees have great cultural value in Māori culture. In certain places these trees are commonly grown like near burial grounds or some sacred spiritual marks.
Ecologically, the Metrosideros excelsa trees are needed to help stabilize the coastal soil and habitat to the native wildlife. They can handle the salt spray and coastal wind, so have become the backbone of the marine conservationist groups that guard the shoreline.
Conclusion
Pohutukawa trees are available in different varieties allowing you to choose a suitable one. They can adapt to landscapes in New Zealand, whether it is a giant height along the shores, or a small domesticated version in the garden. Because of their seasonal beauty, cultural worth and bio-ecological significance they remain an outstanding choice amongst both gardeners and conservationists.