Pseudopanax crassifolius

Pseudopanax crassifolius Details

Pseudopanax crassifolius, commonly known as Lancewood or Horoeka, is a NZ native tree grown for its interesting foliage. It has a distinctive juvenile stage whereby it produces lance shaped leaves that are leathery with toothed margins. The leaves vary in colour from dark green to bronze and often have an orange midrib. As the plant matures the leaves shorten and the leaf colouring tends to become dark green. This evergreen usually grows with a single, upright stem, and matures to produce a broad crown. It typically grows to 5 m tall and 3 m wide, performing best when planted on a free draining soil in full sun or partial shade. Pseudopanax crassifolius is tolerant of wind, coastal environments, moderate drought, and frost once established. This Lancewood is commonly included in a mixed or native planting, used to contrast with other, ‘leafier’ plants, planted around pool areas, or used to complement modern architecture.