Flowering rata in Pukaha Mount Bruce

Northern Rata usually begins life as a seed lodged high in the crow of a forest tree. The plant will eventually send its roots down to the forest floor which join together to form the massive "trunk" supporting thecrown which may be 30 metres above the forest floor. Northern rata in flower is a magnificent sight, each branchlet producing a group of flowers with large bright scarlet stamens. The nectar produced during flowering is a much prized bird food and can be used to produce a remarkably sweet honey. Northern rata is one of the most distinctive trees on the ridge behind the National Wildlife Centre. Northern rata is found in the North and South Islands, from North Cape to Greymouth.

Rata flower