# rata

/ˈɹætə/ (US) · /ɹˈɑːtɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/rata
Updated: 2026-10-15

## Definition

a tall tree from New Zealand with bright red flowers. It grows in forests and can live for a very long time.

For teachers: a tall evergreen tree native to New Zealand, belonging to the genus Metrosideros and noted for bright red flowers.

## Examples

- The rata blooms with bright red flowers in summer.
- Hikers stopped to photograph the old rata covered in red blossom above the track.
- The ancient rata clung to the cliff edge, its twisted roots gripping stone while crimson flowers lit the canopy against the grey winter sky.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.