Name: The Plant Company
Address: 284 Meeanee Road, Meeanee, Napier, 4112, New Zealand
Telephone: 0800 843 752
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pseudopanax tree

The pseudopanax tree is a fascinating and versatile addition to any New Zealand garden, celebrated for its unique foliage, resilience, and strong ties to our native landscape. Pseudopanax, a genus that includes several distinct species and cultivars, effortlessly enhances both modern and traditional gardens. These evergreen trees and shrubs are valued for their sculptural leaves and ability to attract native birds, making them a top choice for those seeking to create a biodiverse, low-maintenance garden.

A tui feeding on the berries and flowers in a Pseudopanax arboreus (Whauwhaupaku) tree.

Pseudopanax arboreus (Five-Finger)

Pseudopanax arboreus, commonly known as Five Finger or Whauwhaupaku, is a fast-growing NZ native tree that typically reaches 4–6 m tall. It features glossy, hand-shaped leaves and a lush, tropical appearance, thriving in sun or shade and tolerating wind well. Small yellowish flowers appear in spring, attracting native birds and insects. This hardy, low-maintenance tree is ideal for shelter belts, revegetation, and native gardens, adding structure, greenery, and biodiversity to New Zealand landscapes.

Buy Pseudopanax arboreus (Five-Finger)

From $18.83

Suited to regions: All regions

Plant type: Trees

Height: 5.00 m

Spread: 2.00 m

Flowering time: Winter

Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy, Shade, Wet

Garden uses: Living areas, Ponds, Pool areas, Screening

Garden styles: Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Modern, Native

Pseudopanax crassifolius growing in a garden with dark green foliage.

Pseudopanax crassifolius (Lancewood)

Pseudopanax crassifolius, commonly known as Lancewood or Horoeka, is a distinctive New Zealand native tree renowned for its dramatic transformation from juvenile to adult form. In its youth, it showcases long, narrow, downward-pointing leaves with toothed margins, which over time mature into shorter, broader leaves forming a rounded canopy. This evolutionary adaptation is believed to have deterred browsing by Moa birds.

Buy Pseudopanax crassifolius (Lancewood)

From $25.58

Suited to regions: All regions

Plant type: Trees

Height: 5.00 m

Spread: 3.00 m

Tolerances: Hardy, Wet

Garden uses: Living areas, Ponds, Pool areas, Screening

Garden styles: Alpine, Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Native

What Is a Pseudopanax Tree?

Pseudopanax trees belong to a family of native New Zealand plants that display a striking array of forms and leaf shapes, ranging from the palmate leaves of Pseudopanax arboreus (Five-Finger) to the dramatic, narrow foliage of Pseudopanax crassifolius (Lancewood). These trees typically grow anywhere from 3 to 10 metres tall, depending on the species and growing conditions. Known for their adaptability, pseudopanax trees thrive in a variety of soils and are tolerant of wind and light frosts, making them suitable for gardens throughout the country.

Popular Species and Cultivars

When choosing a pseudopanax tree, there are several striking options to consider. The Pseudopanax arboreus (Five-Finger) is one of the most common, renowned for its lush, glossy leaves and rapid growth. For something with real architectural flair, Pseudopanax crassifolius (Lancewood) stands out, especially in its dramatic juvenile stage. If you’re seeking something with an exotic presence, Pseudopanax ferox (Toothed Lancewood) boasts deeply serrated, leathery leaves. For those interested in garden shrubs, Pseudopanax Dark Star and Pseudopanax Telstar are compact cultivars that bring striking texture and form to borders and mixed plantings.

Why Choose a Pseudopanax Tree?

Beyond their outstanding looks, pseudopanax trees are ideal for use as screening plants, shelterbelts, or specimen trees. Their evergreen foliage offers year-round interest, adding depth and movement to your garden design. Birds such as tūī and bellbirds are drawn to their flowers and fruit, making them perfect for wildlife-friendly gardens. Whether you’re landscaping a new home or looking to add structure and native character, a pseudopanax tree fits easily into a range of garden styles.

Growing Tips for Pseudopanax

Plant your pseudopanax tree in well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter, in a spot that gets full sun to part shade. Water well during the first growing season to establish roots, though these hardy natives will tolerate dry spells once settled in. Minimal pruning is required – simply remove any damaged or crossing branches to maintain its shape. Both trees and shrub forms, such as Pseudopanax Telstar, respond well to light shaping if desired.

Find Your Perfect Pseudopanax

Discover the unique beauty and resilience of pseudopanax trees by exploring our selection. From the classic Pseudopanax arboreus (Five-Finger) to the bold Pseudopanax ferox (Toothed Lancewood) and compact Pseudopanax Dark Star, there’s a pseudopanax tree perfect for every New Zealand garden. Invite nature in and add lasting structure and interest to your landscape with these exceptional natives.

Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.