New Zealand Christmas tree

Seeds: 300  / Botanical name: Metrosideros excelsa

It doesn't always have to be a poinsettia

In its native habitat, the evergreen Metrosideros excelsa blooms around the turn of the year, hence its use as a Christmas tree. Specimens grown in the Northern Hemisphere tend to display their dense clusters of red, brush-like flowers between May and August. The blossoms create a striking contrast to the velvety, silvery-gray leaves. This tree, also known as Pohutukawa (ironwood tree) by the Maori, thrives in containers and tolerates pruning very well.

Its natural habitat is primarily found in the coastal regions of New Zealand's North Island, both as solitary specimens and in large forest stands.