Compared with northern rātā, southern rātā (Metrosideros umbellata) has few flowers in each cluster. The nectar-bearing cup in the centre of the flower can be clearly seen. Birds, lizards and insects are attracted to the nectar. They often pollinate the plant as they move from flower to flower, brushing against pollen-laden anthers and receptive stigmas.
Te whakamahi i tēnei tūemi
Te Ara - The Encyclopedia of New Zealand
Photograph by Jock Phillips
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