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Description
Metrosideros Bartlettii, commonly known as the Bartlett’s Rātā, is an evergreen tree that belongs to the Myrtaceae family. It is native to New Zealand and is widely known for its vibrant red flowers that bloom in summer. The tree can grow up to 20 meters in height and can live for hundreds of years. Metrosideros Bartlettii is a popular ornamental tree due to its stunning appearance and long lifespan.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Kingdom | Phylum | Class | Order | Family | Genus || — | — | — | — | — | — | — || Eukaryota | Plantae | Tracheophyta | Magnoliopsida | Myrtales | Myrtaceae | Metrosideros |
Appearance
Metrosideros Bartlettii has glossy, dark green leaves that are oblong-shaped and measure up to 10 centimeters in length. The tree’s bark is thick and corky, with deep furrows that can extend down the trunk. Its flowers are composed of clusters of small, bright red stamens that bloom during summer. The tree produces small, woody capsules that contain tiny seeds, which are dispersed by the wind.
Care Guide
To care for Metrosideros Bartlettii, it is important to provide it with adequate water, fertilizer, soil, sunlight, and to ensure it is planted in the appropriate hardiness zone.- Water: The tree requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry periods. It is important to avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot.- Fertilizer: Metrosideros Bartlettii benefits from a balanced fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.- Soil: The tree thrives in well-draining, acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: Metrosideros Bartlettii requires full sun to partial shade to grow to its full potential.- Hardiness Zones: The tree is best suited for hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Metrosideros Bartlettii is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:- Myrtle Rust: A fungal disease that affects the leaves, causing yellow or brown spots.- Scale Insects: Small, sap-sucking insects that can cause leaf drop and stunted growth.- Mealybugs: Small, white insects that feed on the tree’s sap, causing yellowing and wilting of the leaves.
Habitat
Metrosideros Bartlettii is native to New Zealand and can be found in coastal and lowland forests, as well as on cliffs and rock faces. The tree is well adapted to the harsh, windy conditions of coastal environments and can survive in poor soil conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Metrosideros Bartlettii grow in containers?
A: While it is possible to grow the tree in containers, it is not recommended as it can stunt its growth and lead to root-bound conditions.Q: Does Metrosideros Bartlettii require pruning?
A: The tree does not require pruning, but it can be done to maintain its shape and remove dead or diseased wood.Q: How often should Metrosideros Bartlettii be fertilized?
A: The tree should be fertilized twice a year, in spring and fall, with a balanced fertilizer.Q: Can Metrosideros Bartlettii tolerate salt spray?
A: Yes, the tree is well adapted to coastal environments and can tolerate salt spray.
Related Plants
– Metrosideros Excelsa- Metrosideros Umbellata- Metrosideros Robusta
References
– “Metrosideros Bartlettii.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network, nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/metrosideros-bartlettii/.- “Metrosideros Bartlettii.” University of Florida, IFAS Extension, edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/st478.
