Pseudopanax laetus
Large Five Finger / Shining Five Finger
Description:
Attractive evergreen New Zealand native shrub or small tree with large, glossy green leaves divided into broad leaflets, creating a lush, tropical appearance. Its dense, upright growth habit provides year-round structure and shelter in the garden. In summer, mature plants produce clusters of small greenish flowers, followed by dark purple to black berries on female plants, which provide food for native birds. Hardy and versatile, it is an excellent choice for native gardens, screening, and feature planting.
Height:
3–8m
Width:
2–4m
Position:
Full sun to part shade. Performs well in sheltered or exposed positions and tolerates coastal conditions, wind, and light frost once established.
Soil:
Prefers fertile, moist, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Adaptable to a range of soil types, including clay and sandy soils, provided drainage is adequate.
Uses:
- Feature shrub or small tree
- Native and bush-style gardens
- Screening and shelter planting
- Coastal and urban gardens
- Wildlife-friendly planting
- Mixed shrub borders
Care Tips:
- Water regularly while establishing; once established it tolerates short periods of dry conditions
- Apply a balanced slow-release fertiliser in spring to encourage healthy growth
- Mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds, keeping mulch away from the trunk
- Prune lightly if required to maintain shape or remove damaged growth
- Hardy in most New Zealand conditions, tolerating wind, coastal exposure, and light frost once established
- Avoid prolonged waterlogging to maintain healthy root growth
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.
