Cistus Nursery
*RETAIL - Metrosideros umbellata
*RETAIL - Metrosideros umbellata
This collection from New Zealand's South Island is one of the most frost hardy of the New Zealand Christmas tree species. This shrub or small tree grows slowly, eventually reaching 10-15' or a bit more, with narrow, shiny, bright green leaves and a dense habit. A fine garden plant for formality or screen. Mature plants are topped early summer with bright red, powder puff flowers, magic for bees and hummingbirds. Sun to part shade with regular summer water, preferring cooler soils. Frost hardiness expected to 15F, mid USDA zone 8, and possibly lower.
*THESE SIZES ONLY AVAILABLE FOR SALE IN OUR RETAIL NURSERY
Planting Recommendations
Planting Recommendations
Under most conditions, planting directly into the garden is best. Keep in mind, that in our care, plants have been protected from intense sunlight and drying winds and would therefore require sheltered transition time in order to acclimate to such conditions in your garden.
All plants going into containers (rather than in the ground) should be potted immediately in well-drained potting mix and watered well to ensure the soil is fully moistened with no air pockets. Succulent plants abide by different rules (**see below).
Plants held for later planting are best stored in a cool greenhouse or a well-lit garage or basement, rather than in your house where conditions are likely too warm and dry.
Those plants needing time to acclimate can be set out in pots and provided some shade and shelter for the first week to allow for a successful transition.
**For cacti and other succulents, we recommend using a soil mix of less than 30% organic matter, preferably a 2-1 blend of cactus/succulent potting soil and pumice, perlite or lava rock. These plants are sensitive to prolonged heavy moisture, especially in cool/winter conditions. Keep this in mind when watering them for the first time. It is better to leave them dry in lower temperatures.