Pseudopanax belong to the family Araliaceae to which Meryta (puka) and Schefflera (pate) also belong

Pseudopanax are shrubs or small trees.

 Pseudopanax Slideshow. Free Learning Resource for teachers and students

Pseudopanax arboreus     Puahou  five finger                                                                                          

This is one of New Zealands most common native trees. It can be found from Cape Reinga to Bluff in lowland forests. Its particular form of a glossy, five or seven fingered leaf ,along with quick and luxuriant growth, gives a distinctly New Zealand character to any ornamental garden. It grows into a stout tree up to 8 metres high and grows well in most soils and situations.

Pseudopanax crassifolius horoeka lance wood

One of the most interesting trees of the New Zealand flora. It has a distinct juvenile and adult form and as such was once classified as distinct species. It is a very popular ornamental tree overseas. The juvenile form is particularly striking with its cluster of leaves hanging at 45 degrees from the trunk . After about 15 years the plant begins to assume its adult form. It will produce a number of branches and the leaves become broader so a 6 metre crowned tree is formed. It grows well in most situations and is particularly useful as a feature plant in any ornamental area of your property.

The adult leaves of lancewood. Sometimes the leaves are broader than shown here.

The juvenile leaf of lancewood.	The juvenile leaf of lancewood.

Pseudopanax gilliesii
An attractive plant confined to Whangaroa and Little barrier Island. Grows to 4m. Note the single and  trifoliolate leaf.

Pseudopanax laetus.

The most handsome of all the Pseudopanax. It has the largest leaves and creates a tropical feel to any garden.

 

All Pseudopanax produce flowers and berries in umbels. (Like an umbrella, radiating out from the centre). Pseudopanax laetus

 

Male flowers of Pseudopanax lessonii. All Pseudopanax are dioecious having male and female flowers on separate plants.	Male flowers of Pseudopanax arboreus.

Pseudopanx anomalum

The plant is named because it is an anomaly or quite different to all the other Pseudopanax. It is a divaricating shrub, with small simple leaves. The flowers and berries determine that it be placed in the Pseudopanax genera. Found throughout New Zealand.