Beautiful variety of Metrosideros robustus, perennial and evergreen, with a shrub, and sometimes arboreal, rapid growth and Australian origins: it can exceed 5 m in height and 3 m in width at its maximum development. Well branched and lignified from the base, it has erect stems that then curve upwards softly towards the outside giving the shrub an airy and globular aspect; on these there are, oppositely arranged, ovate-lanceolate, leathery leaves with acute apex and slightly wrinkled edge, grey-green in color and velvety to the touch. In late spring, in the terminal portions of the branches, abundant globose inflorescences appear like down, composed of simplified flowers reduced to only the male and female sexual organs, stamens and pistils, with a strong flame red color, from which the popular name attributed to this plant in Australia of "fire tree", or "fire tree". It prefers bright and sunny positions and adapts to any soil as long as it is free from dangerous stagnation of water. It tolerates the typical saltiness of sea winds in coastal areas and manages to overcome periods of even intense and prolonged drought. It bears temperatures only a few degrees below zero, therefore in regions characterized by intense and prolonged cold we recommend cultivation in pots so as to be able to offer it shelter in a cool and bright place in winter. In spring dry, damaged or cluttered parts should be removed and perhaps the more developed branches should be shortened to restore a regular, harmonious shape to the plant and stimulate its compact growth and more abundant flowering. It can be grown on terraces and balconies, as long as the availability of large pots and containers and perfect drainage are guaranteed; in the garden it is perfect as a large isolated spot or to create, by arranging them in sequence, hedges of simple maintenance, of great decorative effect and of sure originality.
Based on their properties and traits, we have selected the plants that pair best with your choice.
Our care tips
The secrets of a happy plant
Production
A growing cycle that values every detail
At Vivai Capitanio, every plant comes from a careful, sustainable growing process, built on more than 35 years of experience and innovation.
Production sites
Excellence in production, rooted in the land
Today, with nine production sites between the sea and the slopes of the Murgia, we grow a wide assortment of plants with passion.
A site sheltered from the wind, ideal for the more delicate species and for the early stages of growth.
On slightly higher ground, home to the more mature plants, ready for immediate effect.
A wide area above the gully, specialising in ornamental grasses.
Here the plants spend the longest phase of their growth before going to market.
A natural karst hollow, the perfect habitat for climbers and succulents.
The heart of the nursery: this is where the cuttings are raised and first potted on.
A recently acquired site with advanced greenhouses for plants with particular requirements.
A system of greenhouses and shade houses for species from warm climates or with low light requirements.
A site sheltered from the wind, ideal for the more delicate species and for the early stages of growth.
A Xylella-free site, created to offer customers production free of any restriction
Our services
Tailored services for your green spaces
At Vivai Capitanio we offer a complete range of services designed to meet the needs of garden centres, landscapers and green-space professionals.
We assemble each trolley with precision, so you get fresh plants without having to order large quantities.
We provide photographic labels with botanical information and planting suggestions, to show every plant at its best.
A display area where we present the best of our production, reserved for trade professionals.
A display area where we present the best of our production, reserved for trade professionals.
Let’s talk about your projects
Growing the right solutions together
Partner with a trusted name in the nursery industry. Our team is ready to understand your requirements and provide tailored solutions. Contact us for expert advice and personalised support from our specialists.
Experience and reliability
Efficient logistics
Our photographic labels provide the essential information, while the free Plant Passport certifies quality for uniform batches, and can be extended to individual plants on request.
Our photographic labels provide the essential information, while the free Plant Passport certifies quality for uniform batches, and can be extended to individual plants on request.
Our photographic labels provide the essential information, while the free Plant Passport certifies quality for uniform batches, and can be extended to individual plants on request.
Our photographic labels provide the essential information, while the free Plant Passport certifies quality for uniform batches, and can be extended to individual plants on request.
Our photographic labels provide the essential information, while the free Plant Passport certifies quality for uniform batches, and can be extended to individual plants on request.
Our photographic labels provide the essential information, while the free Plant Passport certifies quality for uniform batches, and can be extended to individual plants on request.
Our photographic labels provide the essential information, while the free Plant Passport certifies quality for uniform batches, and can be extended to individual plants on request.
Our photographic labels provide the essential information, while the free Plant Passport certifies quality for uniform batches, and can be extended to individual plants on request.