[3] Despite the similar names, large white rātā is distinguished by its much larger leaves and flowers.

[4] It occurs almost exclusively in Kauri forests from the northern Kaimai Ranges to Te Paki at the top of the North Island.

[6][7] In addition to the large white flowers, its new foliage is a reddish colour.

It strongly prefers a situation where its base is afforded shade and it is not permitted to dry out excessively.

[4] There is one known cultivar of large white rātā, Metrosideros albiflora 'Northland', which is listed in the Blue Mountain Nurseries catalog.