Metrosideros thomasii, or the New Zealand Christmas Bush, is an outstanding shrub/ small tree with soft leaves that are grey-green and velvety to the touch. The stunning vivid flowers consist of a mass of brilliant crimson red stamens during spring and summer and often sporadically throughout the year. The vibrant shrub makes an eye-catching hedge or a specimen plant. Prune lightly after flowering is finished. Fertilise with native-plant fertiliser in early spring and at planting.
Soil: Well-drained clay loams or sandy soil with a neutral to acid pH.
Conditions: Plant in full sun for rich foliage colour and prolific flowering. Drought, coastal, wind and salt tolerant.
Size: Height 4-6m x width 5m
Soil: Well-drained clay loams or sandy soil with a neutral to acid pH.
Conditions: Plant in full sun for rich foliage colour and prolific flowering. Drought, coastal, wind and salt tolerant.
Size: Height 4-6m x width 5m