Metrosideros carminea Ferris Wheel

Metrosideros carminea 'Ferris Wheel' is derived from an unusual climbing bush from New Zealand called Scarlet Myrtle or Climbing Rata. 'Ferris Wheel' is characterised by a compact growth habit, dark and glossy foliage, and particularly generous flowering. Its vegetation forms a small bushy mass covered with scarlet pompoms in spring. This less hardy selection is perfectly suited for container cultivation, allowing it to be overwintered like a citrus plant. A delightful subject to place on an exotic patio, it will thrive in the ground in the most sheltered gardens. 

Metrosideros carminea 'Ferris Wheel' was introduced to the New Zealand horticultural market around 1978. It was obtained by propagating a branch from a typical Metrosideros carminea which had a particular appearance. The botanical species is an endemic forest liana found along the coasts and plains of the North Island in New Zealand, with a hardiness that does not exceed -5°C (23°F) once fully grown. All these plants belong to the Myrtaceae family, like myrtles, Eucalyptus, and Callistemon. The genus name, Metrosideros, comes from the Greek "metra", meaning the heart of a tree, and "sideros", meaning iron, alluding to the hardness of the wood of these bushes. Its vernacular name of New Zealand Christmas Tree originates from its flowering period, which occurs around Christmas time in its country of origin.

In the ground, 'Ferris Wheel' has a more bushy and prostrate habit rather than creeping, forming a somewhat scruffy mass 90cm (35in) in height and 1.2m (4ft) in spread. When grown in pots, its dimensions are reduced. Its foliage is naturally very dense and its growth rather slow. The branches are reddish when young. They bear small entire, ovate, leathery, pointed leaves that are dark green and shiny, lighter and furry on the underside. They measure about 2.5cm (1in) long by 1.5cm (1in) wide. Flowering begins in April-May, depending on the climate, and can continue until August. Numerous clusters of flowers composed of a multitude of long carmine red stamens appear on the branches, forming a sort of short pompom or brush. They are very nectar-rich and attract certain birds and many pollinating insects. The seeds, when formed, take one year to mature.

'Ferris Wheel' is a beautiful small bush, to be planted in a seaside garden, or to be grown as a conservatory plant in cold climates where it will live for many years. In a greenhouse or conservatory, it will create an extremely decorative quartet with a Leucadendron, a Tibouchina, or a mimosa, evoking landscapes with exotic charm. In mild climates, it can be used as a standalone specimen or in mass plantings, for example, alongside a creeping ceanothus or a small Leptospermum.