Blooms of Aotearoa: Exploring New Zealand Natives That Flower

New Zealand's native flora is renowned for its diversity, uniqueness, and stunning beauty. While many native plants are admired for their foliage and form, there is a special allure to those that burst into bloom, adorning the landscapes with vibrant colors and delicate petals. In this blog, we'll embark on a journey through Aotearoa's floral treasures, exploring native plants that flower and celebrating the seasonal splendor they bring.

1. Southern Rata (Metrosideros umbellata):  This under rated cousin of the classic Pōhutukawa "New Zealand Christmas Tree," is equally a symbol of summer in Aotearoa.  Rata is just as breathtaking and beautiful as Pōhutukawa but with the added benefit of being able to grow this in colder parts of New Zealand. With its fiery crimson flowers blooming from November to January, the Rata transforms coastal landscapes into veritable spectacles of color. This is a must have in coastal gardens, but also a stunning addition to any inland garden.   These iconic blooms attract native birds and insects, adding to the ecological richness of your ecosystem.

2. Kōwhai (Sophora sp.): The golden blooms of the Kōwhai herald the arrival of spring in New Zealand. These pendulous flowers, which appear from August to October, are a favorite among native birds such as Tui and Bellbirds, who feast on their nectar. Kōwhai blooms bring joy to gardens, parks, and forests, signaling the awakening of nature after the winter slumber.   Kōwhai makes an excellent specimen tree.

3. Manuka (Leptospermum scoparium): Renowned for its medicinal properties and honey-producing capabilities, Manuka also boasts delicate white or pink flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. These dainty blossoms attract bees and other pollinators, contributing to the health of native ecosystems. Manuka flowers add a touch of elegance to the rugged landscapes they inhabit.

4. Harakeke (Phormium tenax): While best known for its striking foliage, Harakeke also produces impressive flower spikes that rise above its sturdy leaves. These tall, colorful spikes can range from vibrant reds to soft yellows and appear in late spring to early summer. Harakeke flowers are a valuable food source for native birds and insects.  Harakeke is a must have in the garden to attract Tui and Bellbird.   

5. Kānuka (Kunzea ericoides): Kānuka, a close relative of Manuka, boasts clusters of small, white or pink flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. These delicate blooms blanket hillsides and coastal areas, providing a source of nectar for bees and other pollinators. Kānuka flowers contribute to the biodiversity and beauty of New Zealand's natural landscapes.

6. Hebes - One of the most desirable NZ natives for gardening.  They are New Zealand's largest family of shrubs with 80-90 species occurring in nature.  They are generally smaller shrubs, with interesting and diverse colour, size and form.  Hebes produce masses of flowers making them sought after and desirable garden plants.  The value of hebes in the garden was recognised over 150 years ago when the first hebes were hybridised in England.  Since then, more than 700 hybrids have been developed, with a hebe for every effect or situation in the garden.  

7. Daisy Bush - (Olearia sp) - A group of shrubs and trees that are attractive and varied and are particularly tough in dry and windy conditions.   As the name suggests, Olearia Tree Daisies become covered in masses of small daisy flowers throughout spring and summer.  These are very attractive and add interest to the tree.   Olearia range from very small compact bushes, such as Olearia nummularifolia and Olearia haastii, to quite big shrubby trees such as Olearia traversii (Chatham Island Ake Ake) and Olearia paniculata (Golden Ake Ake).  The look of Olearias differs a lot and there is huge variety available.  Some have small needle like leaves, some are big and leafy, and there is a huge range in between.

From the flamboyant blooms of the Rata to the delicate flowers of the Kānuka, New Zealand's native flora offers a kaleidoscope of colors and fragrances throughout the year. These flowering treasures not only captivate the senses but also play vital roles in supporting native wildlife, pollinators, and ecosystems. As guardians of Aotearoa's natural heritage, let us cherish and celebrate the beauty of our native plants in all their blooming glory.