New Zealand Christmas Tree Pohutukawa Metrosideros excelsa 20 Seeds USA Company

Metrosideros excelsa, commonly known as the pohutukawa tree, is a species native to New Zealand. It belongs to the Myrtaceae family, which also includes eucalyptus and guava trees. The pohutukawa is renowned for its vibrant crimson flowers that bloom during the summer months, typically from November to January in the southern hemisphere, coinciding with the Christmas season, earning it the nickname "New Zealand Christmas tree."

Key features of the pohutukawa tree include its dark green, leathery leaves and rugged, twisted branches, which contribute to its distinctive appearance. It is often found along the coastlines of the North Island and northern parts of the South Island of New Zealand, where it thrives in coastal conditions, tolerating salt spray and strong winds.

In addition to its ornamental value, the pohutukawa tree also holds cultural significance for the Māori people of New Zealand, who regard it as a symbol of strength, resilience, and the connection between the living and spiritual worlds.