Obsessed?

I think I might be a tad obsessed with two things; the pohutukawa tree (this about my fourth pohutukawa post) and lately, iPhone's Camera+ HD preset.
Nice to see the first of our native Christmas tree opening up anyway!

Surely not?

The pohutukawa tree is a New Zealand icon. It ordinarily regales itself in its crimson plumage around December, hence the oft-given title, 'New Zealand's Christmas Tree'.

I was surprised to find one still flowering back in late February, but this is ridiculous...

Has my botanic knowledge failed me here? I could swear that this emerging red is in fact blooming forth from a Pohutukawa in August. Please, correct me if I am wrong. I couldn't be any less surprised.

A Late Bloomer

A lone Pohutukawa at Kauri Point Reserve here in Wattle Downs is still flowering in the middle of February!
I know that when they flower early we are to expect a long, hot summer. Perhaps this is a sign that it will continue for some time yet. That's fine, so long as the humidity stays away!
Personally, I prefer spring.

Closing thought.
'Kauri' Point in 'Wattle' Downs is covered in 'Pohutukawa'. Go figure.