Pseudopanax crassifolius
Lancewood / Horoeka
Description:
Distinctive evergreen New Zealand native tree renowned for its remarkable transformation from juvenile to adult form. Young plants produce long, narrow, leathery leaves with pronounced serrated edges that hang downward from a single upright stem, creating a striking architectural appearance. As the tree matures, it develops a branching canopy with shorter, broader leaves, eventually forming an attractive small to medium-sized tree. Mature plants produce clusters of small greenish flowers in summer, followed by dark purple to black berries on female plants that attract native birds.
Height:
8–15m
Width:
3–5m
Position:
Full sun to part shade. Tolerates exposed sites, wind, coastal conditions, and frost once established.
Soil:
Prefers fertile, well-drained soil but adapts to a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, sandy, and rocky soils, provided drainage is good.
Uses:
- Feature or specimen tree
- Native and bush-style gardens
- Architectural landscape planting
- Revegetation projects
- Coastal gardens
- Wildlife-friendly planting
Care Tips:
- Water regularly while establishing; once established it tolerates extended dry periods
- Apply a balanced slow-release fertiliser in spring if required
- Mulch annually to retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping mulch away from the trunk
- Prune only to remove dead or damaged branches, as the natural form is a key feature
- Hardy throughout most of New Zealand, tolerating wind, coastal exposure, and moderate to heavy frosts once established
- Ensure good drainage and avoid prolonged waterlogging
We have made every effort to display as accurately as possible the grade and quality of the plant in the images.
Plants are subject to availability; there is a slight possibility the plants can be sold before your order is processed. In this instance we can offer a refund or credit and let you know when more plants become available.
