Botanical name:

Pseudopanax lessonii

Common name(s):

Houpara

About:

An attractive shrub or small tree, native to New Zealand, features broadly oval leaflets that possess shallow serrations near their tips. It is widely cultivated throughout New Zealand due to its appealing tropical appearance, which adds a vibrant touch to gardens and landscapes. The fruit, which appears from February to May, serves to attract a variety of birds, making it a delightful addition to any outdoor space. This species is particularly well-suited for coastal planting, thriving in environments that are often challenging for other plants.

Natural habitat:

Coastal forest and scrub

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun, Salt, Wind & Coastal tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

Three Kings to Poverty Bay and northern Taranaki.

Height: 4m

Flowering: 

December – February with a green coloured flower/s

Fruiting:

February - May

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food & Forests.

How to grow:

Easily grown from fresh seed.

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