Botanical name:

Pseudopanax crassifolius

Common name(s):

Horoeka, Lancewood

About:

The juvenile stage of the lancewood is one of New Zealand’s most iconic plants, alongside the cabbage tree. Found throughout the country in lowland forests and scrub, it matures into a round-headed tree reaching about 5m in height. What stands out is its juvenile form, characterised by long, drooping leaves that extend downwards from a single stem. These leaves can exceed 60cm in length but are only about 2cm wide. They possess a leathery texture with shallow toothed edges and display a color range from dark green to bronze, complemented by an orange midrib. This juvenile stage lasts for 10 to 20 years, after which branches begin to form, the stem thickens, and the leaves shorten, losing their drooping form. Whether planted alone or in clusters, the juvenile lancewood creates a striking visual impact. 

Natural habitat:

Lowland to montane forest. Sea level to 750 m

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun, Drought, Salt & Wind tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

North, South and Stewart Islands. Widespread and common.

Height: 12m

Flowering:

January-April with a green or yellow coloured flower/s

Fruiting:

January-April

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food, Riparian plantings & Forests

How to grow:

Easily grown from fresh seed or soft wood cuttings.

** Seed germinates without pre treatment. 4 weeks cold stratification will help speed this up though