Why is the pohutukawa tree important?

Why is the pohutukawa tree important?

Possibly the most famous pōhutukawa in Maori legend is a small, wind-beaten tree clinging to the cliff face near Cape Reinga. The 800-year-old tree is reputed to guard the entrance to a sacred cave through which disembodied spirits pass on their way to the next world.

What is special about pōhutukawa?

The plants that do live along the coast, such as Pohutukawas, have special adaptations. The Pohutukawa leaves have a waxy coating that protect them from the salt. In December to January this tree flowers. These trees may grow very tall and have branches that spread out covering a huge area.

What does the pohutukawa tree symbolize?

Pohutukawa, with its striking red flowers, is an important symbol for all New Zealanders. In Maori mythology, its flowers are said to represent the blood of a young warrior who perished while trying to avenge his father’s death. Pohutukawa often features on festive greetings cards, poems and stories.

How would you describe a pohutukawa tree?

Pōhutukawa grow up to 25 metres (82 ft) high, with a spreading, dome-like form. They usually grow as a multi-trunked spreading tree. Their trunks and branches are sometimes festooned with matted, fibrous aerial roots. The oblong, leathery leaves are covered in dense white hairs underneath.

How long do pohutukawa trees live?

Pōhutukawa can live for hundreds of years in their natural coastal environment. While it is common to see 100-year-old trees growing in home gardens, both pōhutukawa and northern rātā can probably live up to 1000 years.

Do Native plants attract native birds?

Native plants and shrubs are the best way to attract native birds to your garden. They can provide shelter, food, and nesting places in your backyard.

Are pōhutukawa trees poisonous?

They are rapid shade producers, so excellent for providing shade for other trees to grow under. Maori people are reported to have eaten ngaio fruit, but the leaves and fruit are actually poisonous, containing a liver toxin, with the leaves being the most toxic.

Is rata a tree or a vine?

6 climbing rata species (these are vines and do not form trees).

Is Kowhai poisonous to humans?

All parts of the kowhai tree are toxic, with the seeds being most toxic to all stock and people.

Do rabbits eat Kowhai?

Kōwhai are palatable to a wide range of animals including farm stock and wild goats, deer, hares and rabbits. Rabbit netting is available from farm and garden supply outlets.

What kind of tree is the pohutukawa tree?

Although the fortunes of pōhutukawa and rata have changed for the better, they are still threatened by people and pests. The blazing red flowers of pōhutukawa around Christmas time have earned this tree the title of New Zealand’s Christmas tree. Pōhutukawa and rātā belong to the genus Metrosideros.

Why are pohutukawa so cool when they are blooming?

Pohutukawa are so cool when they are blooming. When I first moved to New Zealand several years ago I was quickly blown away by the amazing landscapes. This country is full of gorgeous beaches, cliffs, mountains, and lots of rivers. I soon began noticing some huge, gnarled trees all along the coasts of the North Island.

Why are there so many weeds on pohutukawa Island?

Weeds and grasses often prevent regeneration by smothering young seedlings. DOC works closely with other agencies such as Project Crimson to restore rātā and pōhutukawa habitat on the mainland through education and revegetation programmes.

How is myrtle rust affecting the pohutukawa forest?

For pōhutukawam, work continues in main coastal sites within the natural range of pōhutukawa (Northern North Island). With myrtle rust, there is ongoing research and monitoring to determine what impact the disease will have on our native tree species. All this work will help ensure the ongoing survival of these important iconic forest species.

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