The pohutukawa tree (Metrosideros excelsa) with its crimson flower has become an established part of the New Zealand Christmas tradition. This iconic Kiwi Christmas tree, which often features on greeting cards and in poems and songs, has become an important symbol for New Zealanders at home and abroad. 19th-century references described the pohutukawa tree as the ‘Settlers Christmas tree’ and ‘Antipodean holly’
I have lived in the UK for most of my life, but when young I definitely had wanderlust and even ended up living in South Africa for several years which was a wonderful experience. I now look forward to a long and leisurely retirement doing what I like most - gardening, photography, walking and travelling. View all posts by Heyjude
17 thoughts on “New Zealand Pohutukawa Tree”
Such a beautiful tree. I can see why they have made it a part of Christmas tradition.
It’s a beauty. I hope to get some more photos of a chain of them down by the lagoon later this week. Hopefully there will be more flowers open as it has been sunny!
I’m so pleased you have seen the pohutukawa tree Jude, I think they are the most stunning of all the native trees in NZ. I love the old gnarled ones that are right along the coast and have been buffeted by the winds. Pleased to hear the sun is out. Did you here that Sydney has had 7 straight days of storms? 😦 That is a record previously only had 5 continuous days. Hope it is all over by the time you get back.
The native plants are wonderful – and it is so green here! But then they have had a lot of rain recently and even today was cloudy with showers! Back in Sydney at the weekend so I hope the sun shines for my last few days downunder! Enough grey skies back home…
Such a beautiful tree. I can see why they have made it a part of Christmas tradition.
It’s a beauty. I hope to get some more photos of a chain of them down by the lagoon later this week. Hopefully there will be more flowers open as it has been sunny!
It must look amazing when all the flowers are open. I look forward to seeing your pictures.
New Zealand certainly does spectacle with its native flora. I’m looking forward to the avenue. Time must be flying now. Enjoy cuddles while you can.
Indeed. Only a week left. I shall be sad to leave 😦
I sympathize: I know that feeling all too well. I was looking at photographs from there a while ago and the places remain so vivid in my memory.
It is such a pretty tree. I had one in my garden for about 25 years, and it only recently turned its toes up. It was a variegated form.
What a lovely tree to have in your garden.
They have to be the prettiest street trees ever.
They must look stunning when they are in full flower, which probably won’t be for another week or two.
I’m glad you got to see a lot more of those flowers than I did.
I’m so pleased you have seen the pohutukawa tree Jude, I think they are the most stunning of all the native trees in NZ. I love the old gnarled ones that are right along the coast and have been buffeted by the winds. Pleased to hear the sun is out. Did you here that Sydney has had 7 straight days of storms? 😦 That is a record previously only had 5 continuous days. Hope it is all over by the time you get back.
The native plants are wonderful – and it is so green here! But then they have had a lot of rain recently and even today was cloudy with showers! Back in Sydney at the weekend so I hope the sun shines for my last few days downunder! Enough grey skies back home…
We have been having bad storms over here Jude but it is forecast to clear by the weekend, fingers crossed for you.
It is my ultimate favourite tree! Just love it!
What a glorious sight! 🙂
Only a week? 😦 Oh, Jude- I shall hurry that cold front along so it’s positively balmy when you get back 🙂
Yes please Jo, though keep the blue skies and sunshine!