Metrosideros Tahitian Embers
Notify MeMetrosideros Tahitian Embers is a striking evergreen shrub known for its vibrant, variegated foliage featuring shades of green, cream, and pink, which intensify in cooler weather. Clusters of red, brush-like flowers appear from late spring through summer, adding a bold contrast to the colourful foliage. Its compact, bushy habit makes it an eye-catching choice for year-round interest.
Ideal for coastal, contemporary, and low-maintenance gardens, Metrosideros Tahitian Embers is perfect for borders, feature planting, or containers. It thrives in full sun with free-draining soil and is tolerant of wind, coastal conditions, and dry spells once established. Space approximately 1 to 1.2 metres apart for informal hedging or grouped planting.
Forms a compact, rounded shrub reaching around 1.5 to 2 metres high and 1.2 to 1.5 metres wide.
Trimming: Prune lightly after flowering to shape the plant and encourage a dense, compact form. Remove any dead, damaged or inward-growing branches. For hedging, clip annually in late summer.
Deadheading: Not necessary, but removing spent flower heads can improve appearance and promote tidy growth.
Fertilising: Apply a low-phosphorus, slow-release fertiliser in early spring. In poor soils or containers, feed with a balanced liquid fertiliser every 6 to 8 weeks during the growing season to support healthy foliage and flowering.
Watering: Water regularly during the establishment phase. Once established, it is reasonably drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional deep watering during extended dry periods. Ensure the soil drains well to avoid root issues.
Pest Control: Monitor for scale insects and myrtle rust. Treat scale with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Remove and destroy any rust-infected foliage, especially during humid conditions.
Disease Management: Myrtle rust is the primary concern. Watch for yellow-orange spores on young shoots and leaves. Remove affected growth promptly and avoid overhead watering. Good airflow around the plant helps reduce fungal risk. Ensure well-draining soil to prevent root rot.
Enjoy complimentary delivery anywhere in mainland New Zealand when you purchase plants worth $250 or more*.
For orders below $250, the following flat-rate delivery charges are applicable:
- Urban delivery within mainland New Zealand: $19.95
- Rural delivery within mainland New Zealand: $39.95
- Waiheke, Chatham and Great Barrier Islands: Please contact us for shipping options.
We aim to have all orders shipped within 14 days from the order date, unless a different shipping date is specified alongside a product.
