Climbing Rata
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(Metrosideros colensoi)
Climbing Rata (Metrosideros colensoi)
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John Barkla
CC BY 4.0
Image By:
John Barkla
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: John Barkla | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Rights Holder: John Barkla | Publisher: iNaturalist | Date Created: 2017-11-18T08:39:28-08:00 |
Summary
Metrosideros colensoi, commonly known as climbing rata or Colenso’s rātā, is a forest liane or vine endemic to New Zealand’s coastal and lowland forests. It can reach up to 6 meters in height and is known for its clusters of pink or white flowers that bloom from November to January, providing a striking display during the Southern Hemisphere’s summer. The foliage is a dark green color, with new growth emerging in a contrasting lighter green. The plant’s form is orderly, with downward arching branches that convey a sense of ’movement’, making it a visually appealing addition to gardens.
Climbing rata is valued for its beautiful flowers and distinctive growth habit, which can add structure and interest to garden designs. It is often used to cover trellises, walls, or as a part of a mixed border. This species is adaptable to a range of light conditions, from full sun to part shade, and prefers medium to high amounts of water with well-draining soil. While it is less commonly cultivated than Metrosideros carminea, its unique characteristics make it a superior choice for certain landscapes. Gardeners should be aware that Metrosideros species can be susceptible to root rot if drainage is poor.CC BY-SA 4.0
Climbing rata is valued for its beautiful flowers and distinctive growth habit, which can add structure and interest to garden designs. It is often used to cover trellises, walls, or as a part of a mixed border. This species is adaptable to a range of light conditions, from full sun to part shade, and prefers medium to high amounts of water with well-draining soil. While it is less commonly cultivated than Metrosideros carminea, its unique characteristics make it a superior choice for certain landscapes. Gardeners should be aware that Metrosideros species can be susceptible to root rot if drainage is poor.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Vine
- Height: 13-18 feet
- Width: 5-13 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: White, Pink
- Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Drainage: Medium
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Hummingbird Garden
Natural Habitat
Coastal and lowland forests of New Zealand
Other Names
Common Names: Colenso’s Rata, Rātā
Scientific Names: Metrosideros colensoi, Metrosideros pendens, Metrosideros colensoi var. pendens, Nani colensoi, Nania colensoi
GBIF Accepted Name: Metrosideros colensoi Hook.fil.