The Story
Plant Bio
Metrosideros collina is an evergreen Pacific Island species native to regions including Fiji and Polynesia, though it is not native to the Australian mainland. It forms a densely branched, upright habit with small, leathery, opposite leaves and terminal clusters of brush-like flowers consisting primarily of prominent stamens.
'Fiji Fire' is distinguished by its striking, brilliant deep burgundy, red, or copper-orange new growth that contrasts sharply against the mature glossy dark green foliage. This cultivar grows as a tight, bushy shrub to small tree reaching 2.5 to 4 metres in height, making it exceptionally well-suited for hedging and screening.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
157 inches
Width
98 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
9, 10
Water
Moderate
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Pacific Islands (Fiji, Polynesia)
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Bloom period
Spring – Summer
In flower about 4 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a planting site in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil.
- If planting in heavy or clay soil, construct a raised mound or incorporate organic matter to prevent waterlogging.
- Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball, position the plant at the same level as the pot, and backfill.
- Water thoroughly during the initial establishment phase to maintain regular moisture.
Pro Tip
Avoid severe, heavy pruning into old, bare timber, as the plant will not reliably regenerate from leafless woody stems.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Prune lightly after flowering or shape one to two times a year to maintain density.
- Plant in full sun to achieve the densest growth and most vibrant foliage coloration.
- Apply a light application of a balanced, low-phosphorus or general slow-release fertiliser in spring.
Don't
- Do not prune heavily into old, leafless woody stems where regeneration is unreliable.
- Do not overwater or allow the root zone to remain waterlogged.
- Do not over-maintain or shear constantly outside the growing season.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Fiji Fire Metrosideros questions
What zones can Fiji Fire Metrosideros grow in?
Fiji Fire Metrosideros is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
When does Fiji Fire Metrosideros bloom?
Fiji Fire Metrosideros typically blooms in spring through summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Fiji Fire Metrosideros need full sun?
Fiji Fire Metrosideros does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Fiji Fire Metrosideros drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Fiji Fire Metrosideros handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Fiji Fire Metrosideros with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.