orihou

Pseudopanax colensoi | orihou, mountain fivefinger

A handsome and hardy, small, round-headed evergreen forms a dense shrub or small tree, reaching about 5 meters tall and 3 meters wide, with smooth, dark green "five-fingered" leaflets. It thrives in forest and scrub, often above the bush line, and is well-suited to cooler climates. From October to March, it produces conspicuous purple-black fruit, attracting birds and pollinators. While it tolerates wind, it flourishes best under a shady canopy and is a versatile choice for native plantings, screening, or as a specimen tree. It is not suitable for warmer climates.