Description
Metrosideros variegata – Variegated New Zealand Christmas Bush
Metrosideros variegata is an evergreen shrub or small tree admired for its striking variegated foliage and brilliant summer blooms. Its leaves feature glossy green centres edged with creamy-yellow margins, creating a stunning contrast that brightens any garden throughout the year.
In summer, it produces clusters of vivid crimson, bottlebrush-like flowers that attract birds, bees, and other pollinators. Its upright, medium-to-large growth habit makes it perfect as a feature shrub, small tree, hedge, or container plant.
Features
• Variegated evergreen foliage with green centres and creamy-yellow margins
• Bright red, brush-like flowers in summer
• Hardy and tolerant: thrives in sunny or partially shaded positions, coastal areas, and moderate drought once established
• Attracts pollinators and native wildlife
• Suitable for hedges, borders, feature planting, or container gardening
Size
• Mature height: 5–6 m
• Mature width: 3–4 m
• Can be pruned to maintain a smaller, compact form if desired
Care Requirements
• Full sun to part shade
• Well-drained soil
• Light pruning after flowering to maintain shape
• Low maintenance and highly resilient
A stunning, versatile shrub that adds year-round interest and seasonal colour to any garden.
