Southern Rata
Metrosideros umbellata

Family: Myrtaceae

What it is like

Metrosideros umbellata is an evergreen Tree growing to 15 m (49ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. It is in leaf all year, in flower from July to 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): 15

Where it is found

Lowland to montane, occasionally sub-alpine forests and shrubland, southwards from latitude 36°s, North, South, Stewart and Chatham Islands.

New Zealand.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 0

Medicine

Rating: 0

Other

Rating:

Plants can be used as a hedge, succeeding in exposed maritime positions. Wood - compact, tough, very strong. Used for ship-making, carpentry 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

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

M. lucidus. Rich.