RATA

Metrosideros umbellata Southern rata

This variety differs from the northern one in that it starts growth on the ground from seed and remains a bushy plant, but if germination takes place on a log or fallen tree fern, it then grows into a forest tree (Martin). This variety is covered in masses of scarlet flowers, but it may bloom only once in three years. It has the same medicinal value as northern rata. M. umbellata grows abundantly on the west coast of the South Island and only rarely in the mountains in the North Island.

The boiled bark of rata gives fawn or brown dyes.