Metrosideros kermadecensis facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Metrosideros kermadecensis |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Metrosideros
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| Species: |
kermadecensis
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| Synonyms | |
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formerly included in Metrosideros polymorpha and Metrosideros villosa |
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The Kermadec pōhutukawa (scientific name: Metrosideros kermadecensis) is a beautiful evergreen tree. It is also called the New Zealand Christmas bush. This tree belongs to the myrtle family. It grows only on the volcanic Kermadec Islands. These islands are about 900 kilometers (560 miles) northeast of New Zealand.
This tree has bright red flowers. These flowers are made of many stamens, which are the parts that hold pollen. The Kermadec pōhutukawa is the main tree found in the forests of Raoul Island. It can grow very tall, often more than 15 meters (50 feet). Its trunk can be over 1 meter (3 feet) wide.
It looks a lot like the pōhutukawa tree from mainland New Zealand. People often mix them up. However, the Kermadec pōhutukawa has smaller, more oval-shaped leaves. It also blooms with flowers all year round. It also looks similar to the ʻōhiʻa lehua tree from Hawaiʻi.
Where Does the Kermadec Pōhutukawa Grow?
The Kermadec pōhutukawa is a special tree. It is endemic to the Kermadec Islands. This means it naturally grows only in this small group of islands. Because it grows in a limited area, it is listed as "range restricted." This means its natural home is small. However, it is not currently considered an endangered tree.
Growing Kermadec Pōhutukawa Trees
The Kermadec pōhutukawa is a popular tree to grow. Many people plant it in New Zealand. It has also started growing naturally in Hawaiʻi. There is even a special type with different colored leaves. This type is often planted in home gardens.
It is quite easy to grow new trees from fresh seeds. You can also grow them from cuttings. Cuttings are small pieces of the plant that can grow roots. This tree can also hybridize with the mainland pōhutukawa (M. excelsa). This means they can mix their genes to create new types of trees.
See also
In Spanish: Metrosideros kermadecensis para niños
