Pseudopanax Arboreus
Pseudopanax arboreus
Common names: Five Finger, Puahou, Whauwhaupaku
Family: Araliaceae
Origin: New Zealand
Plant Type: Evergreen Tree / Large Shrub
Overview
Pseudopanax arboreus (Five Finger / Puahou) is a fast-growing, versatile NZ native tree known for its attractive hand-shaped leaves, lush green foliage, and strong performance in a wide range of conditions. It is an excellent shelter and filler tree, ideal for revegetation, native gardens, wildlife plantings, and creating quick structure in new landscapes.
Key Features
Foliage: Large, glossy, five-lobed leaves giving the plant a tropical, textural look; maintains lush colour year-round.
Flowers / Fruit: Produces clusters of small green-yellow flowers in autumn, followed by dark purple-black berries loved by birds such as tūī and korimako.
Form & Habit: Upright, spreading shrub or small tree with multiple stems; naturally bushy and full when young.
Growth Rate: Fast.
Cultural & Ecological Value: Extremely valuable for wildlife—high nectar and berry provider; strong performer in restoration, shelter, and urban plantings.
Mature Size
| Attribute | Size |
|---|---|
| Height | 5–8 m |
| Spread | 3–4 m |
| Form | Upright, multi-stemmed small tree |
Ideal Growing Conditions
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Light | Full sun to part shade |
| Water | Moderate; tolerates dry conditions once established |
| Soil | Free-draining soils; grows well in clay, loam, and coastal soils |
| pH Range | Neutral to slightly acidic |
| Frost Tolerance | Hardy; tolerates cold, wind, and coastal exposure |
Landscaping & Garden Uses
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Excellent shelter tree or quick filler in new gardens
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Wildlife gardens—berries are highly attractive to birds
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Coastal, urban, and exposed sites
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Ideal for native revegetation and restoration projects
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Great backdrop plant behind flaxes, grasses, and hebes
Care & Maintenance
Pruning: Can be shaped lightly when young; otherwise needs little pruning.
Watering: Water during establishment; low needs once mature.
Feeding: Occasional spring fertiliser improves growth, especially in poor soils.
Pests & Diseases: Generally robust; may attract caterpillars, which are also beneficial for native bird species.
Additional Tips
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Excellent companion for fast-establishing natives like kōwhai, manuka, kanuka, and coprosma.
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Performs well in windy or coastal conditions where more delicate trees struggle.
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Provides excellent habitat support in urban and rural plantings.
Fun Fact / Botanical Insight
The name “Five Finger” refers to its distinctive palmate leaf pattern. Pseudopanax arboreus plays an important ecological role—many native birds rely on its berries during late winter and early spring when food is scarce.
Why Choose Pseudopanax arboreus?
A fast-growing, wildlife-friendly, and incredibly versatile NZ native that quickly adds height, shelter, and lush foliage—ideal for both residential planting and large-scale restoration.
Pot Size: These are our standard size in 7cm square pots.
Pot Size:
Standard Pot = 7cm Square
Large Pot = 9cm Square
Extra Large Pot = 1.5L Round
Use this guide to see how many plants of your selected pot size fit into a half or full carton.
Standard Pot = 25 plants per Carton
Large Pot= 10 plants per Carton
Extra Large Pot = 5 plants per Carton
Urban- $16.55 per Carton Rural- $23.85 per Carton
Standard Pot = 50 plants per Carton
Large Pot= 25 plants per Carton
Extra Large Pot = 10 plants per Carton
Urban- $16.55 per Carton Rural- $23.85 per Carton
Product Size:
The photo next to the ruler shows an example of the plant for sale (cm's) to give an indication of the size. Please note that the photo is for reference only; the size and appearance of the plant may vary.
Please Note:
Shipping charge applies. Available for immediate dispatch only, while stocks last.
