Water
Provide consistent moisture, particularly when young or during dry spells. Reduce watering in cooler months but do not allow the soil to become completely dry for extended periods.
Also known as Southern Rata
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade
80% intensity
Prefers ample light for best flowering.
Moderate, consistent moisture
60% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-drained, fertile soil. Tolerates a range of soil types but dislikes compacted or waterlogged conditions.
50% intensity
Moderate
70% intensity
Ideal growing range 10-25 °C.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Light feeding
40% intensity
Balanced fertilizer in spring.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Provide consistent moisture, particularly when young or during dry spells. Reduce watering in cooler months but do not allow the soil to become completely dry for extended periods.
Prune after flowering to shape the tree and remove any dead or crossing branches. Avoid heavy pruning, as it can affect future flowering.
Best propagated from seed sown in spring or from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer. Grafting can also be used for specific cultivars.
Not typically repotted as it is a large tree. For container-grown specimens, repot every 2-3 years into a larger container with fresh potting mix.
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Photos of Southern Rātā (Metrosideros umbellata)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification