Metrosideros "Mistral" (Rata x Pohutukawa hybrid)

Rata and pohutukawa are iconic native trees with spectacular displays of red flowers during summer.  The flowers have abundant nectar so are attractive to native birds such as bellbirds and tui.  They are great coastal trees and pohutukawa are especially wind and dry tollerant but require some frost protection when young.  Plants can be pruned if required and some smaller growing varieties are available.