PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates coastal wind exposure for mature specimens
Watering
Water deeply but infrequently; drought-tolerant once established
Temperature
Hardy to light frosts; prefers cool temperate climates, avoid extreme heat above 28°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Leathery, elliptical to oblong leaves with glossy dark green upper surfaces and pale undersides
- Flower: Dense clusters of bright crimson, brush-like flowers with numerous stamens
- Stem/Bark: Young stems are hairy; mature bark is rough, dark brown to grey
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist for young epiphytic specimens; reduce watering for mature self-supporting trees
Fertilization
Diluted balanced organic feed once every 6 weeks. Use low-nitrogen feed to promote flowering
Eggshell powder topdress：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface around base of young plantsPruning
- Remove dead or damaged branches in late winter before new growth emerges
- Trim overcrowded epiphytic growth to maintain desired form if grown as a container specimen
- Avoid heavy pruning of mature trees to preserve their natural canopy structure
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: No known toxicity to cats per ASPCA records
Humans: No known toxicity to humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental tree for gardens; nectar source for native New Zealand birds such as tūī and bellbird
