Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Myrtaceae

Genus:

Metrosideros

Species:

Metrosideros polymorpha

USDA Symbol:

MEPO5

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Shrub , Tree

Height:

2500 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

Medium

Bloom Months:

apr,may,jun,jul,aug,sep,oct,nov,dec

Bloom Colors:

red, orange, yellow, pink

Wildlife Benefits

Bees:

★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)

Butterflies & Moths:

★★★☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)

Caterpillars:

★☆☆☆☆ Recorded caterpillar host plant (HOSTS Database)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

birds, bees, butterflies

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Fire Ecology:

Fire adapted — tolerates or benefits from fire

Fire Notes:

Metrosideros polymorpha is a pioneer species on lava flows and can resprout after fire; seeds germinate readily on bare substrate.

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

volcanic, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil

pH:

4.0 - 5.5 (strongly acidic to slightly acidic)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

thrives on volcanic substrates; adaptable to various conditions

Propagation & Germination