Rata is a common name for several species of trees in the myrtle family, Myrtaceae, that are native to New Zealand. The most well-known species is the northern rata (Metrosideros robusta).
Northern rata is a large tree that can grow up to 25 meters tall and has a broad, spreading crown. It is found in forested areas throughout the North Island and in the north-western part of the South Island. The tree’s bark is smooth and grey when young, but becomes rough and flaky as it ages.
Southern rata (Metrosideros umbellata) is found in the South Island and Stewart Island. Southern rata is a smaller tree than the northern rata, growing up to 15 meters tall. It has smaller, pinkish-red flowers and its bark is also smooth and grey when young, but becomes rough and gnarled with age.
