Thomas's Pohutukawa - Metrosideros thomasii

Thomas's Pohutukawa Metrosideros thomasii

One of New Zealand's most striking flowering trees, Thomas's Pohutukawa delivers a dense, sculptural canopy and vivid crimson blooms that command attention in any prestige landscape. Advanced specimens establish quickly and provide immediate structure, colour, and coastal resilience from day one.

Why Thomas's Pohutukawa

Flowering Display: Intense crimson-red blooms in summer create a bold, seasonal statement across the full canopy.
Coastal Hardiness: Exceptional tolerance of salt-laden winds, sandy soils, and exposed coastal conditions makes this a premier choice for waterfront properties.
Canopy Form: Broad, spreading habit with dense, dark foliage delivers year-round structure and deep shade.
Longevity: A long-lived specimen that becomes a defining feature of a property over decades.
Low Maintenance: Once established, demands minimal intervention, suited to professional landscapes where ongoing upkeep must be contained.

Ideal Applications

Coastal Estates: A natural fit for beachfront and clifftop properties where exposure and salt tolerance are non-negotiable.
Feature Specimen Planting: Positioned as a stand-alone focal point in open lawns or arrival courts for immediate visual impact.
Streetscape & Boulevard Planting: Provides canopy continuity and dramatic seasonal colour in high-profile civic and residential streetscapes.
Resort & Hospitality Landscapes: The flowering display and robust form suit luxury resort projects seeking a distinctive, place-making tree.

Specimen & Installation

Spacing (feature/avenue): 8–12m
Planting Season: Spring or autumn
Soil & Drainage: Well-drained to moderately moist soils; tolerates coastal conditions and light clay; prefers good drainage but adapts to a range of soil types
Establishment Care: Water deeply and regularly during the first two summers to establish a strong root system, then reduce to occasional deep watering during dry periods. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping mulch clear of the trunk.

Plant Details

Height: 8–15m
Width: 6–10m
Growth Rate: Moderate
Foliage: Evergreen
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Native to: New Zealand (endemic to the Coromandel Peninsula region)
Flower Colour: Red