Photo of Pseudopanax ferox container plant by Danger Garden

Photo by Danger Garden

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Pseudopanax ferox

Also Known As

  • Fierce Lancewood
  • Horoeka
  • Toothed Lancewood

Plant type

tree, shrub

size

  • H: 10'-20'
  • W: 3'-5'

planting zones

  • 8b-10b

More Options

Pseudopanax ferox plant details

Pseudopanax ferox is a slow-growing broadleaf evergreen shrub or tree with purple and red foliage. Grows well with mostly sun - mostly shade and regular - occasional water. Does well in average and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something heat tolerant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Pseudopanax ferox

Plant type: shrub or tree
Plant family: araliaceae
Foliage: evergreen purple and red
Mature size: 3 FT - 5 FT - wide, 10 FT - 20 FT - tall
Uses: container plant, infrequent-blooming, serrated leaves, tropical-looking, unique, year round interest

GROWING CONDITIONS for Pseudopanax ferox

USDA Zones: 8b - 10b
Sun exposure: mostly sun - mostly shade
Watering frequency: regular - occasional
Resistant to: heat
Soil needs: average and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Pseudopanax ferox, also known as the fierce lancewood, will be a unique and striking addition to your garden. With its tall, slender trunk and brooding, juvenile, sword-like leaves, it makes a bold statement wherever it is planted. Native to New Zealand it sees a variety of adverse weather conditions, making it a great choice for those who want a low-maintenance yet visually stunning plant. We've found this character struggles a bit in warmer climates, especially with afternoon (hot) winds. Closer to the coast or in the Northwest, this plant is a winner.
The last 2 winters have put a whuppin' on this in most folks gardens but some mild sites or protected spots have gotten through - damn them! Amazing container plant or striking garden plant. When it is middle-aged, adult leaves appear which are palmate and green. You can brag then.
One of those cool dinosaur plants found down Kiwi way that catches the eye and triggers the lust gene in plant geeks and adventurous gardeners. Juvenile leaves are dark brown, long, very narrow, stiff, and saw-toothed, growing downward from a central stem -- odd indeed. Slow growing, trees reach 20' in 20+ years, only then producing adult foliage, shorter, wider, and green. Sun to dappled or bright shade and regular summer water. Frost hardy in USDA zone 8b in a sheltered location, though even in Portland we keep most of ours in containers and shelter during winter cold.

Gardening facts about Pseudopanax ferox plant

How to Grow Pseudopanax ferox

  • Sun Exposure

    • mostly sun - mostly shade
  • Water Needs

    • regular - occasional
  • Soil Needs

    • average
    • well-drained
  • Special Situation

    • heat tolerant

Features

  • Foliage Color

    • red
    • purple
  • Foliage Season

    • evergreen
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