Pseudopanax lessonii 'Purpurea'
Purple Five Finger
Description:
A striking New Zealand native evergreen shrub prized for its bold, leathery foliage in rich shades of purple, bronze, and olive-green. New growth emerges with the deepest purple colouring before maturing to bronze-green, providing year-round colour and texture. Its naturally bushy, upright habit makes it an excellent feature plant, screening shrub, or contrast plant in native and contemporary landscapes. Mature plants may produce small greenish flower clusters followed by dark berries that attract native birds.
Height:
2–4m
Width:
1.5–3m
Position:
Full sun to part shade. Best foliage colour develops in full sun, though it performs well with some afternoon shade in hotter areas.
Soil:
Prefers fertile, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Tolerates a range of soil types, including clay, provided drainage is good.
Uses:
- Feature specimen or focal point
- Native and contemporary gardens
- Informal screening and hedging
- Mixed shrub borders
- Coastal and urban gardens
- Wildlife-friendly planting
Care Tips:
- Water regularly while establishing; once established it tolerates short dry periods
- 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 encourage bushier growth
- Hardy in most New Zealand conditions, tolerating wind, coastal exposure, and light frost 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.
