Metrosideros excelsa (New Zealand Christmas Tree)

Admired for its leathery foliage and striking flowers, Metrosideros excelsa (New Zealand Christmas Tree) is an evergreen, wide-spreading tree boasting big clusters of showy flowers packed with prominent crimson stamens. Blooming in late spring to early summer, they cover the branch tips, like Christmas ornaments. They stand out against the evergreen foliage of oblong to ovate, glossy dark green leaves. A handsome tree worthy of inclusion in coastal gardens. It can be used as a screen or hedge and is great for erosion control. Tolerant of drought, wind and salt spray, New Zealand Christmas Tree attracts birds into the garden and can live for up to 1000 years.

• Grows up to 30-35 ft. tall and wide (9-11 m). Grows 24 in. per year (60 cm).
• A full sun to part shade lover, this plant is easily grown in dry to medium moisture, neutral to slightly alkaline, well-drained soils. Good drainage is critical. Drought tolerant.
• Perfect as a specimen or accent plant, hedges. Great in Mediterranean gardens and coastal gardens.
• Generally pest and disease free. Keep an eye out for phytophthora and root rot.
• Prune the lower branches to get tree form.
• Native to New Zealand.