Metrosideros thomasii - New Zealand Christmas Bush

Metrosideros thomasii

A beautiful medium sized shrub which is native to New Zealand and commonly known as the New Zealand Christmas Bush. 

It features gorgeous curvy grey and mint green foliage which is velvety to touch, producing red pompom like flowers in spring and summer.

Growth size: 3-5m h x 3-5m w

Positioning: Full sun

Temperament: Drought tolerant when established, coastal tolerant, light frost tolerant when established

Perfect for: Hedging, dense screening, bird attracting

Key Features 

One of the standout features of Metrosideros thomasii is its exceptional tolerance to salt spray and coastal winds, making it a top choice for beachside properties and exposed coastal gardens across Sydney, Gold Coast, Brisbane.  These are usually only grown and available in NSW & QLD.

It also handles poor, sandy soils with ease and requires minimal maintenance once established, making it a low maintenance.

Foliage is gorgeous curvy grey/ mint green shades which is velvety to touch, producing red pompom like flowers in spring and summer.  The combination of these two colours makes for a beautiful contrast.

It responds well to pruning if a more compact or formal shape is desired, and its naturally bushy habit means minimal shaping is needed to keep it looking tidy.

A magnet for nectar-feeding birds, with the bright red flowers attracting honeyeaters and other native wildlife to your garden which is a lovely bonus for anyone wanting to support local biodiversity.

Growing Conditions 

Plant in full sun to part shade.

Tolerant of coastal exposure, wind, and poor soils.

Once established, it's relatively drought-tolerant, though regular watering during the first year will help it settle in.

Perfect Uses

> Informal hedge or screen

> Attracting birds and wildlife 

> Coastal gardens

> Where a shorter to medium sized hedge is required