You might not expect to see something called a Christmas tree in full bloom during Malta’s sunniest months, but nature does love a good surprise!
Right now, if you’ve noticed bursts of fiery red flowers lighting up Malta’s countryside, you’re likely spotting the Metrosideros excelsa, better known as the New Zealand Christmas Tree.
Native to New Zealand, where it blooms around Christmas time in the Southern Hemisphere’s summer, the Metrosideros has found a second home in the Mediterranean, particularly in Malta’s public gardens, streetscapes, and seaside areas.
In Maltese heat, it thrives, typically bursting into colour between May and July, offering a welcome splash of red against blue skies and limestone streets. With its vibrant, brush-like flowers and silvery-green leaves, it’s not hard to see why it’s a favourite among landscape designers. It also attracts pollinators, making it as useful as it is beautiful.
So next time you spot those striking red flowers, you’ll know you’re looking at the New Zealand Christmas Tree – a little Southern Hemisphere cheer in the middle of Malta’s summer heat!
Have you spotted one yet?