Garden Care
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Houpara or coastal five-finger (Pseudopanax lessonii)
Houpara is an evergreen coastal shrub or small tree with stout branches and bold, glossy leaves. Each hand-shaped leaf has three to five leathery, dark-green leaflets. Small green flowers appear in summer, followed by dark-purple fruit that provides food for native birds.
Growing approximately 2–5 m tall and up to 3 m wide, it suits coastal gardens, native borders, screening, windbreaks and large containers. Plant in full sun or partial shade in fertile, well-drained soil. Water thoroughly during dry periods while establishing and mulch annually. Houpara tolerates wind, salt spray and dry conditions once established but should be protected from heavy frost. Prune lightly only when shaping is required.
Native origin: Endemic to northern New Zealand, from the Three Kings Islands to Poverty Bay and northern Taranaki
Plant type: Evergreen native shrub or small tree
Companion Plants: Kawakawa, rengarenga lily, coprosma, carex and mountain flax.
Key difference: Bold, glossy hand-shaped leaves suit exposed coastal gardens. Lush coastal native with five-finger foliage and bird-attracting fruit.
Size PB2
