Metrosideros parkinsonii

Parkinson's rātā (Metrosideros parkinsonii), also known as Shrubby Rata, is a shrub or small tree endemic to New Zealand. It is one of a number of New Zealand Metrosideros species belonging to the subgenus Mearnsia. However, unlike New Zealand's other endemic Mearnsia species which live out their lives as vines, Parkinson's rātā grown into a shrub or small tree of up to 8 metres in height, often with spindly looking branches. The name commemorates Sydney Parkinson, Captain James Cook's botanical artist during his first voyage to New Zealand.

Description

The flowers of Parkinson's's rātā are usually crimson, and flowering is usually from September until December. Foliage varies from dark green to light green, with leaves usually clasped against the branches. Flowers will often appear directly from branches, and can sometimes be hidden behind the foliage.

Conservation

As of 2012, Metrosideros parkinsonii is not regarded as threatened.^[1] It naturally occurs in the west coast of the South Island, from Hokitika to Collingwood, as well as Great Barrier and Little Barrier Islands in the Hauraki Gulf.

Cultivation

Metrosideros parkinsonii is a difficult plant to establish but well worth the effort. This species is mainly grown for its attractive flowers. Plants may need some pruning and training to achieve a good shape and it can be grown against walls or fences or as a specimen plant.^[2]

It is seldom available through nurseries but is occasionally available from Oratia Native Plant Nursery.^[3]

References

Further reading

• Salmon, J.T., 1986. The Native Trees of New Zealand. Wellington: Heinneman Reed.
• Simpson, P., 2005. Pōhutukawa & Rātā: New Zealand's Iron-Hearted Trees. Wellington: Te Papa Press.

External links