Botanical name:

Metrosideros diffusa

Common name(s):

White rata, akakura

About:

It is one of a number of unique New Zealand species of Metrosideros that live out their entire lives as distinctive vines, unlike the northern rata (M. robusta), which typically begins its life as a hemi-epiphyte and can eventually grow into a large and majestic tree. This particular vine is one of three white flowering rātā vines in existence, with the other two being the large white rātā and the small white rātā. The leaves of this fascinating vine are mostly rounded at the tip, contributing to its unique appearance. Flowering occurs from mid-spring to early summer, showcasing beautiful white or pale pink flowers that add to the natural beauty of the landscape.

Natural habitat:

White rātā is the most common climbing rātā in the wild, found naturally in lowland forests clinging to tree trunks but also some times on rocks and old logs.

Growing environment:

Sun, Shade, Coastal, Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

Found throughout the North, South and Stewart Islands of New Zealand.

Height: 6m

Flowering: 

October – January with a pink/red or white coloured flower/s

Fruiting:

January – April but may be found throughout the year

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food, Riparian plantings, Forests & Flowers.

How to grow:

Seed germinates without pre treatment. This seed requires light to germinate. For best results germinate the seed on top of moist seed rising mix, don't cover just keep moist until germination is complete.