It is one of a number of New Zealand Metrosideros species which live out their lives as vines, unlike the northern rātā (M.robusta), which generally begins as a hemi-epiphyte and grows into a huge tree.

[2] Metrosideros diffusa climbs to 6 m tall and has small shiny leaves up to 2 cm or more.

Metrosideros diffusa is not widely grown in cultivation, but is available from specialist native plant nurseries within New Zealand.

[3] In addition there is one known cultivar, Metrosideros diffusa 'Crystal Showers' sold by Blue Mountain Nurseries in Tapanui.

[4] This is a slow growing groundcover with white flowers but cream and green variegated foliage.