Metrosideros umbellata
Metrosideros umbellata
Common Names: Southern Rātā, Rātā
Family: Myrtaceae
Origin: New Zealand
Plant Type: Evergreen Tree
Overview:
Metrosideros umbellata, commonly known as Southern Rātā, is a majestic native tree celebrated for its brilliant crimson summer flowers and glossy evergreen foliage. Found naturally throughout the South Island, especially in cooler, high-rainfall regions, it brings a classic “NZ bush” feel to gardens and landscapes while providing valuable habitat for native wildlife.
Key Features:
Foliage: Small, leathery, glossy dark green leaves with a tidy, dense appearance
Flowers / Fruit: Masses of vivid red brush-like flowers in summer; highly attractive to tūī, bellbirds, and pollinators
Form & Habit: Upright, eventually forming a broad, rounded canopy; can start as a shrub before developing into a tree
Growth Rate: Moderate
Cultural & Ecological Value: Important native species supporting birdlife; iconic component of southern forests
Mature Size:
| Attribute | Size |
|---|---|
| Height | 10–15m (can be smaller in exposed sites) |
| Spread | 5–10m |
| Form | Upright tree with spreading canopy |
Ideal Growing Conditions:
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Light | Full sun to partial shade |
| Water | Moderate to high; prefers consistent moisture |
| Soil | Free-draining but moisture-retentive soils |
| pH Range | Slightly acidic to neutral |
| Frost Tolerance | Moderate–high; tolerates cool climates well |
Landscaping & Garden Uses:
- Feature tree for larger gardens and lifestyle blocks
- Excellent for revegetation and native restoration planting
- Suitable for coastal and high rainfall environments
- Can be used in shelterbelts in milder sites
Care & Maintenance:
Pruning: Minimal; shape when young if required
Watering: Keep well-watered during establishment
Feeding: Generally not required in good soils
Pests & Diseases: Generally hardy; watch for pōhutukawa psyllid in some areas
Additional Tips:
Prefers cooler climates and performs especially well in southern regions like Southland and the West Coast. Shelter from harsh, drying winds when young for best establishment.
Fun Fact / Botanical Insight:
Unlike the northern pōhutukawa, Southern Rātā often begins life as an epiphyte high in the forest canopy before sending roots down to the ground and eventually becoming a massive standalone tree.
Why Choose Metrosideros umbellata?
For a true native statement tree with seasonal impact, ecological value, and strong ties to New Zealand’s natural landscapes, Southern Rātā is hard to beat.
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.
