Metrosideros Umbellata
Metrosideros umbellata
Common Names: Southern Rātā
Family: Myrtaceae
Origin: New Zealand (South Island and offshore islands)
Plant Type: Evergreen Tree
Overview
A magnificent native tree known for its vibrant crimson summer blooms and glossy dark-green foliage. Southern Rātā brings striking colour to coastal and forest gardens, attracting nectar-feeding birds such as Tui and Bellbird. Hardy and long-lived, it thrives in cool, moist regions.
Key Features
Foliage: Small, leathery, dark-green leaves with a glossy surface; dense and tidy year-round.
Flowers / Fruit: Masses of bright red brush-like flowers in mid- to late-summer; nectar-rich and highly attractive to birds and bees.
Form & Habit: Naturally upright to spreading canopy tree; can be pruned to maintain compact form or single trunk.
Growth Rate: Moderate.
Cultural & Ecological Value: Important food source for native birds and pollinators; valued for coastal restoration and shelter plantings.
Mature Size
| Attribute | Size |
|---|---|
| Height | 5–15 m (occasionally taller in optimal sites) |
| Spread | 4–8 m |
| Form | Upright to broad-spreading evergreen tree |
Ideal Growing Conditions
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Light | Full sun to light shade |
| Water | Moderate; prefers consistent moisture but tolerates short dry spells once established |
| Soil | Free-draining, fertile soil; tolerates coastal conditions |
| pH Range | Acid to neutral |
| Frost Tolerance | Hardy to light–moderate frosts once established |
Landscaping & Garden Uses
-
Striking specimen or feature tree for native gardens
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Excellent for coastal shelter belts and revegetation projects
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Provides nectar for birds and bees
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Ideal for larger gardens or public landscapes
Care & Maintenance
Pruning: Light formative pruning when young to shape; remove deadwood or crossing branches as needed.
Watering: Keep moist during establishment; benefits from mulch to retain soil moisture.
Feeding: Apply a slow-release native fertiliser in spring.
Pests & Diseases: Generally pest- and disease-free; monitor for Myrtle rust and prune affected growth if required.
Additional Tips
Plant in open, well-ventilated areas for best flowering. Avoid heavy pruning into old wood. Suitable for cooler coastal and sub-alpine conditions.
Fun Fact / Botanical Insight
Southern Rātā is closely related to the Northern Rātā (Metrosideros robusta), but flowers later and prefers cooler southern climates. Its fiery blooms often signal midsummer across Fiordland and the West Coast.
Why Choose Metrosideros umbellata?
A show-stopping New Zealand native that combines spectacular colour with durability and ecological value — a must-have for any wildlife-friendly landscape.
Pot Size:
These are our standard size in 7cm square pots.
Pot Size:
Standard Pot = 7cm Square
Large Pot = 9cm Square
Extra Large Pot = 1.5L Round
Use this guide to see how many plants of your selected pot size fit into a half or full carton.
Standard Pot = 25 plants per Carton
Large Pot= 10 plants per Carton
Extra Large Pot = 5 plants per Carton
Urban- $16.55 per Carton Rural- $23.85 per Carton
Standard Pot = 50 plants per Carton
Large Pot= 25 plants per Carton
Extra Large Pot = 10 plants per Carton
Urban- $16.55 per Carton Rural- $23.85 per Carton
Product Size:
The photo next to the ruler shows an example of the plant for sale (cm's) to give an indication of the size. Please note that the photo is for reference only; the size and appearance of the plant may vary.
Please Note:
Shipping charge applies. Available for immediate dispatch only, while stocks last.
