New Zealand’s Iconic Pohutukawa Tree: Unraveling its Australian Roots
Discovery of Ancient Fossils in Tasmania
The pohutukawa tree, revered for its vibrant crimson blooms that grace New Zealand’s summer landscapes, may have its origins not in New Zealand, but in Australia. This revelation emerged from a groundbreaking study published in the American Journal of Botany, which described two newly discovered fossil species of Metrosideros, the genus to which the pohutukawa belongs.
The fossils, unearthed on the Tasmanian coast by researchers from the University of Adelaide, date back approximately 25 million years. Designated as Metrosideros dawsonii and Metrosideros wrightii, these fossils represent the earliest known evidence of the pohutukawa’s ancient ancestors.
Supporting Evidence for an Australian Origin
The discovery of these fossils in Australia aligns with previous findings of Metrosideros fossils in Tasmania dating back 35 million years. These findings bolster the theory that the genus Metrosideros originated in Australia, as they indicate the presence of a diverse range of ancient Metrosideros species there.
Moreover, the distribution of the newly discovered fossils suggests that they may have been less well-adapted for long-distance dispersal compared to their ancestors. This supports the hypothesis that they originated in Australia, as they were less likely to have migrated elsewhere.
Extinction in Australia and Distribution in the South Pacific
Despite their presumed Australian origin, the pohutukawa and its myrtle relatives are no longer found in Australia today. They thrive in various regions across the South Pacific, including Hawaii, Papua New Guinea, the Bonin Islands, and sub-Antarctic islands. The reason for their extinction in Australia remains an enigma.
Cultural Significance to the Maori
Although the pohutukawa may not have originated in New Zealand, it holds profound cultural significance for the Maori people. They regarded it as a sacred tree, featuring prominently in Maori mythology.
A particularly revered pohutukawa is located at the northernmost tip of Cape Reinga. According to Maori mythology, this is where the spirits of the dead commence their journey to the ancestral homeland of Hawaiki, leaping off the rocky outcrop and descending to the underworld through the roots of the pohutukawa tree.
19th-Century Settlers and the Pohutukawa
In the 19th century, European settlers were drawn to the pohutukawa’s dazzling blossoms. They adorned their churches and homes with the vibrant flowers.
The pohutukawa has become deeply intertwined with New Zealand’s history and identity. It adorns Christmas cards and features in festive songs, symbolizing the warmth and joy of the holiday season.
Ongoing Research and Conservation Efforts
Researchers continue to explore the evolutionary history of the pohutukawa and its relationship to its Australian ancestors. Understanding the reasons for its extinction in Australia could shed light on the factors that influence species distribution and extinction.
Conservation efforts are also underway to protect and preserve the pohutukawa in New Zealand. Its cultural and ecological significance necessitates ongoing efforts to ensure its presence in the country’s landscapes for generations to come.