whauwhaupaku
about.
Pseudopanax arboreus | five-finger, whauwhaupaku
A hardy, versatile New Zealand native evergreen shrub or small tree, easily recognised by its distinctive palmate leaves with 5 glossy green leaflets, giving it a lush, tropical look. In summer, it bears small, greenish-white flowers attracting pollinators, followed by dark purple berries for birds. Ideal for mixed borders, native gardens, or as a feature plant, it thrives in sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, tolerating various soil types and coastal conditions. Drought-tolerant once established and low-maintenance, it reaches 5-8 meters tall and 3.5 meters wide, making it excellent for screens, windbreaks, and adding vertical interest.
typical habitat.
coastal forest
lowland forest
montane forest
drainage.
moist
sun.
full sun
full shade
partial shade
mature specifications.
height | 8m
width | 3.5m / 30cm (trunk)
pollinators calendar.
flowering | June - August
fruiting | August - February
did you know?
Pseudopanax arboreus is a host species for the caterpillar of the endemic North Island moth Declana atronivea.