whauwhaupaku

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.