Pohutukawa

Pohutukawa
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Plantae Division: Magnoliophyta Class: Magnoliopsida Order: Myrtales Family: Myrtaceae Genus: Metrosideros Species: Excelsa

Sometimes called the New Zealand Christmas Tree, the Pohutukawa (Metrosideros excelsa) is a coastal tree that grows in the North Island of New Zealand.

Pohutukawa grow to around fifteen metres, with a fairly large round canopy. They flower in late December (the sourthern hemisphere summer), with a brilliant crimson flower covering the canopy, hence their nickname.

The giant pohutukawa in Te Araroa on the East Coast is reputed to be the largest in the country, but fine examples can be found in just about any New Zealand coastal city.