Toru: Pohutukawa

The blazing red flowers of pōhutukawa around Christmas time have earned this tree the title of New Zealand’s Christmas tree.

Pōhutukawa hold a prominent place in Maori mythology. Legends tell of the young Maori warrior, Tawhaki and his attempt to find help in heaven to avenge his father’s death. He subsequently fell to earth and the crimson flowers are said to represent his blood.

1 Requirement

  1. Earn 1000 Points