Pohutukawa

Description:

Also known as the New Zealand Christmas Tree. A medium sized rounded tree but older plants can become massive spreading specimens, often with twisted limbs and quite gnarled looking. Leaves are waxy dark green, quite small and elongated. Striking bright red blooms in December/January often in full flower on Christmas day. The flowers are made up of a mass of red stamens surrounding a calyx funnel filled with nectar which attracts many birds. The seed pod splits in June/July. .

Habitat:

Coastal species often found just above the high tide line in the northern half of the North Island. Thrives in salty, windy conditions and often soaked with salt spray. These trees seen at Raglan Harbour on the west coast.

Notes:

Iconic New Zealand plant. Interestingly, although these trees produce large amounts of seed, seedlings are seldom found in abundant numbers. Seasons Greetings to all at Project Noah.