This Metrosideros comes from Tahiti and is often referred to as a Tahitian Pohutukawa. It grows to about 1.5 metres round and high if not pruned but can be kept smaller with pruning. Excellent dotted in the garden or a a boarder plant for large gardens. It does not like heavy frosts and young exposed leaves will burn. Excellent at the coast in free draining ground or in a tub.
Young plants require thorough watering during dry periods over the first two or three years mulching helps to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Plant with some general slow release fertiliser and then every spring apply an organic based fertiliser such as blood and bone at a handful per square meter as new growth begins.
Planting success is often improved on clay soils by adding extra topsoil and raising beds. Incorporate coarse sand, bark, compost or other organic material to improve soil structure.
