Metrosideros excelsa

Pōhutukawa, commonly known as the New Zealand Christmas tree, is a coastal evergreen tree famous for its vibrant crimson flowers and ability to thrive on rocky cliffs. It is an iconic and culturally significant species in New Zealand, celebrated for its striking beauty and resilience.

It is native to the coastal regions of the North Island of New Zealand, the Rotorua lakes, and parts of the northern South Island. The tree has also been introduced and naturalized in other mild-to-warm climates, including coastal Australia, California, and South Africa.

It is widely cultivated as an ornamental and street tree, and its abundant nectar is used to produce pōhutukawa honey. Ecologically, it serves as an important pioneer species for colonizing lava plains and stabilizing coastal cliffs.

In traditional Māori healing, extracts from the inner bark have been used to treat diarrhea and dysentery. The flower nectar is also traditionally consumed to soothe sore throats.

The dense, strong, and highly figured wood was historically used by Māori to craft beaters and other small, heavy tools. Its naturally curved timber was also highly valued in shipbuilding for making strong vessel knees.

Regarded as a chiefly tree, it symbolizes strength and beauty in Māori culture. A famous, ancient pōhutukawa at Te Rerenga Wairua is traditionally believed to be the leaping-off point for spirits of the dead departing the mortal world.