This fully-grown metrosideros is among those seen lining the lanes of a housing estate near the iCATS College in Kuching. METROSIDEROS, also known as ‘rata’ or ‘pōhutukawa’, is a genus of flowering plants belonging to the Myrtaceae family. This variety is known to have high tolerance when it comes to growing in diverse environmental conditions.
Though native to the Pacific region, the metrosideros can also be found in New Zealand, Australia and parts of Southeast Asia. The plant has a distinguishing feature, which is having vibrantly-coloured flowers, ranging from bright red and pink, to orange and yellow. These flowers are uniquely arranged in clusters, with numerous stamens jutting out — creating the fluffy appearance that is extremely appealing to the natural pollinators.
The metrosideros holds significant value to certain cultures. In New Zealand, they are as iconic as the Christmas tree, especially with its vibrant red flowers that bloom around December. For the Maoris, they regard it as a sacred tree, with its blossoms being used for traditional ceremonies, and also to be processed as a natural dye.
The dense canopy provides habitat for a wide range of wildlife including small birds and pollinators. The birds would feed on the nectar of the flowers. However, this plant is now subject to a pathogen, which first occurred in New Zealand, causing severe damage to the tree.
The pathogen, Austropuccinia psidii, is a myrtle rust fungus that attacks the young shoots.