Northern Rata
Metrosideros robusta
Family: Myrtaceae
What it is like
Metrosideros robusta is an evergreen Tree growing to 6 m (19ft) by 15 m (49ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9 and is frost tender. It is in leaf all year, in flower in August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.
Height (m): 6
Where it is found
Coastal to lower montane forest, south to latitude 42° 30' south, North and South Islands. Often found as an epiphyte, sending its roots down through the moss surrounding its host.
New Zealand.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
An edible nectar is obtained from the flowers.
Nectar: produced in such abundance by some flowers that it can be harvested fairly easily.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
Plants can be used as a hedge, succeeding in exposed maritime positions. Wood - dense, hard, heavy, durable. Used for bridges, carriages etc.
Hedge: Plants that can be grown as hedges.
Wood: A list of the trees and shrubs that are noted for having useful wood.
Attracts Wildlife: Plants noted for attracting wildlife
Hedge: Hedge
How it is grown
Prefers a well-drained but moisture-retentive lime-free soil in a sunny position. Plants are somewhat lime-tolerant but are unsuitable for shallow soils over chalk. Very resistant to maritime exposure. This species is not very hardy in Britain, succeeding outdoors only in the mildest areas of the country where it makes a small shrub. A very ornamental plant. Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in a warm greenhouse and only just cover the seed. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Give the plants some protection from the cold for at least their first winter outdoors. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, 7 - 10cm with a heel, in individual pots in a frame. Good percentage.
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Hedge;
Habit: Tree
Hardiness: 8-11
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Moist