1. Home
  2. Encyclopedia
  3. New zealand christmastree (Metrosideros excelsa)
New zealand christmastree (Metrosideros excelsa)-i
New zealand christmastree (Metrosideros excelsa)-i
New zealand christmastree (Metrosideros excelsa)-i
New zealand christmastree (Metrosideros excelsa)-i
New zealand christmastree (Metrosideros excelsa)-i
New zealand christmastree (Metrosideros excelsa)-i
New zealand christmastree (Metrosideros excelsa)-i
New zealand christmastree (Metrosideros excelsa)-i
New zealand christmastree (Metrosideros excelsa)-i
New zealand christmastree (Metrosideros excelsa)-i
New zealand christmastree (Metrosideros excelsa)-i
New zealand christmastree (Metrosideros excelsa)-i
New zealand christmastree (Metrosideros excelsa)-i
New zealand christmastree (Metrosideros excelsa)-i

New zealand christmastree

Scientific name
Metrosideros excelsa

Basic Information

Myrtaceae Family Metrosideros Genus New zealand christmastree Species
Myrtaceae > Metrosideros > Metrosideros excelsa
83%
The Completeness of This Encyclopedia

Please help us complete the encyclopedia, Terrarium is a encyclopedia service to be completed with everyone in the world. Currently, this page is 83% complete. For more information on how to contribute, please click here.

  • Tree
Height
1000cm ~ 2000cm
Flower Color
Leaf Color
Anthesis
summer
Sunlight Exposure
Full Sun
Hardiness Zones
9'
Cold resistance
Fair
Heat resistance
Good
Habitat of origin
New Zealand
Growth Rate
Normal

What is New zealand christmastree (Metrosideros excelsa)?

What is New zealand christmastree (Metrosideros excelsa)

New zealand christmastree, scientifically known as Metrosideros excelsa, is a species native to New Zealand. It is a flowering tree that belongs to the Myrtaceae family. The plant is renowned for its vibrant crimson flowers, which bloom during the Southern Hemisphere's summer, resembling Christmas decorations. The flowers attract native birds like tui and bellbirds due to their nectar. Metrosideros excelsa can grow up to 20 meters in height, with a spreading canopy. It is commonly found in coastal and lowland forests. The tree produces small, woody capsules containing numerous tiny seeds. There are several cultivated varieties of Metrosideros excelsa, each with unique flower colors and growth habits. This plant is relatively easy to grow in well-drained soil and full sun, making it a popular choice for landscaping in temperate regions.

Ben
    • 0

    • 0

New Zealand christmastree is scientifically known as Metrosideros excelsa. It is evergreen tree with brilliant crimson flowers that blossom in summer months. Leaves of Metrosideros excelsa are black and glossy. This tree can become approximately 20 meters tall. It commonly referred pohutukawa tree in Maori culture, symbolizing power and resilience. Metrosideros excelsa produces diminutive, wooden capsules with many tiny seeds. It prospers in coastal regions and well-drained soils, requiring minimal maintenance once planted. This species popular in gardens and parks for beauty and cultural meaning.

Flower meaning

The flower language commonly used in America for the New Zealand Christmas tree is: - Love - Passion - Strength - Resilience One typical example is: - Love: The vibrant red flowers of the New Zealand Christmas tree symbolize deep love and affection, making it a popular choice for expressing romantic feelings. Birth flowers: -

Ben
    • 0

    • 0

Calendar of New zealand christmastree (Metrosideros excelsa)

Calendar

New zealand christmastree in the United States typically blooms in late spring to early summer. The flowers are at their best during the month of June. Blooming occurs once a year, lasting for about 3-4 weeks. To extend the blooming period, ensure the plant receives adequate sunlight, water, and well-draining soil. Pruning after flowering can also promote more blooms the following year.

Ben
    • 0

    • 0

How to grow New zealand christmastree (Metrosideros excelsa)

Watering

For the New Zealand Christmas tree, watering frequency should be adjusted based on the season. During the growing season in spring and summer, water the plant deeply once a week. In winter, reduce watering to once every two weeks to prevent waterlogging. Ensure the soil is well-draining to avoid root rot. Monitor soil humidity by checking the top few inches for dryness before watering. Water the plant in the morning to allow excess moisture to evaporate during the day. Adjust watering amounts based on weather conditions to maintain soil moisture levels.

Ben
    • 0

    • 0

Soil and Fertilizer

New zealand christmastree thrives in well-drained soil with a pH level between 5.5 and 6.5. It prefers sandy or loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. Fertilize the plant with a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring and late summer. Apply the fertilizer around the drip line of the tree, following the manufacturer's instructions for the correct amount. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can harm the plant. Monitor the soil quality regularly to ensure it remains fertile and well-drained for optimal growth.

Ben
    • 0

    • 0

Sunlight and Place

New Zealand Christmas tree thrives in full sun exposure, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. It has excellent heat tolerance but may struggle in extremely cold temperatures below 25°F. For optimal growth, maintain temperatures between 50-80°F. During summer, provide ample water and mulch to retain moisture. In winter, protect from frost by covering or moving indoors. Place the plant in a location with well-draining soil and good air circulation. It can withstand strong sunlight but may benefit from some shade during peak afternoon hours. Aim for consistent sunlight to promote flowering and overall health.

Ben
    • 0

    • 0

Advanced Information of New zealand christmastree (Metrosideros excelsa)

Pruning

New zealand christmastree benefits from pruning to maintain its shape, promote new growth, and remove dead or damaged branches. Pruning is best done after flowering in late spring or early summer to avoid cutting off potential flower buds. It is essential to use clean, sharp tools to make precise cuts and minimize stress on the plant. Remove any crossing or crowded branches to improve air circulation and sunlight penetration. After pruning, water the plant thoroughly and apply a balanced fertilizer to support recovery and new growth. Regular pruning every few years helps keep the New zealand christmastree healthy and vibrant.

Ben
    • 0

    • 0

New Zealand Christmas Tree requires pruning to maintain a good shape, stimulate new growth, and enhance flowering. It is best to prune after flowering in late spring or early summer to avoid removing potential flower buds. Remove dead or damaged branches and shape the plant by trimming branches. Avoid heavy pruning as it may reduce flowering. After pruning, water the plant adequately to aid recovery and apply a balanced fertilizer to support new growth. Regular pruning every couple of years helps keep the plant healthy and vibrant.

Planting and Harvest

New zealand christmastree thrives best when potted rather than in-ground due to its sensitivity to cold temperatures. When potting, choose a container with good drainage holes and fill it with well-draining soil. Carefully transplant the plant into the pot, ensuring the roots are covered but not buried too deeply. Water the plant thoroughly after potting and place it in a sunny location. Repotting should be done every 2-3 years in spring, moving the plant to a slightly larger pot. To prevent mishowing, avoid overwatering and ensure the plant receives adequate sunlight and occasional fertilization.

Ben
    • 0

    • 0

New zealand christmastree requires well-draining soil. Repot in spring every 2-3 years. Mist leaves frequently for humidity. Prevent overwatering and root rot.

Propagation

New zealand christmastree can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, and layering. Seeds should be sown in well-draining soil, kept moist, and placed in a warm, sunny location. Cuttings should be taken from healthy stems, dipped in rooting hormone, and placed in a moist growing medium. Layering involves bending a low branch to the ground, covering it with soil, and allowing it to root before separating it from the parent plant.

Ben
    • 0

    • 0

New zealand christmastree can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, and division. Take cuttings from robust stems, dip in rooting hormone, and place in a mixture of perlite and peat moss. To optimize propagation success, use a combination of techniques. Collect seeds when they are ripe and arid, cuttings when the plant is energetically maturing, and divide in the early spring or autumn. It involves disjoining the greenery into tinier portions with roots fastened and replanting them in separate pots.

Pests and Diseases

New zealand christmastree is susceptible to pests such as scale insects, which can cause yellowing of leaves and stunted growth. These pests can be controlled by regularly inspecting the plant and using horticultural oil or insecticidal soap. Another common issue is the fungal disease known as sooty mold, which appears as a black, powdery substance on the leaves. This disease is often a result of honeydew secreted by sap-sucking insects like aphids. To prevent sooty mold, it is essential to control the insect population through natural predators or insecticidal treatments. Moreover, root rot caused by overly wet soil can lead to wilting and yellowing of leaves. To prevent root rot, ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering the plant. Regularly monitoring the plant's health and addressing any issues promptly can help maintain the New zealand christmastree's vitality.

Ben
    • 0

    • 0

The New Zealand Christmas tree is sometimes afflicted by harmful insects such as scale insects, which can cause leaf yellowing and restricted growth. Often, natural predators like ladybugs or the use of horticultural oils can help manage these pests. A common issue is the fungal disease known as sooty mold, which appears as a black, powdery substance on leaves. Sooty mold typically develops from the sweet secretions of sap-feeding insects such as aphids. Controlling these insects helps prevent the spread of sooty mold. Too much water may lead to decay of roots, making the plant wilt then perish. For prevention, ensure drainage and avoid overwatering. Frequently checking the plant for indications of pests or diseases assists maintaining the health of the New zealand christmastree.

Habitat of New zealand christmastree (Metrosideros excelsa)

Habitat

Toxicity of New zealand christmastree (Metrosideros excelsa)

Health Benefits

edible
Inedible
Toxic
No toxicity

NO DATA

Toxic for dogs and cats

NO DATA

Q&A of New zealand christmastree (Metrosideros excelsa)

  • Is there a recommended way to choose?

  • What are the key features to consider when buying a New Zealand Christmas tree?