Pseudopanax discolor [Nelson, NZ]

Fascinating evergreen aralia from New Zealand, this particular purple-leaved form from serpentine soils in Nelson, South Island, NZ. Shrub to small tree -- to 15' to 20' but easily kept as small as 3' by nipping -- produces palmate leaflets, somewhat fan-shaped, and the deepest green, tinted purple in summer, darkening to a rich purple in cooler periods. Small, sputnik flowers, typical of the Aralia family appear in spring and summer followed by dark berries that add to the plants attractiveness in fall. A plant for moist woodland conditions or a bright garden in parts of the country where summers are not unreasonably warm. Consistent moisture; a little organic matter is a plus but fairly low fertility overall is preferred. Wonderful container plant. Frost hardy in the upper reaches of USDA zone 8; totally reliable in zone 9.