Pseudopanax ferox

A slender, upright, evergreen small tree growing to 5m tall and 1m wide.

This interesting small tree is very slow-growing and will only reach 2m in 5 years. It has both juvenile and adult leaves. Juvenile leaves are up to 40cm long, narrow, tough and grey-brown in colour with fiercely serrated margins and hang downwards. Once the tree gets to around 2m it then starts to branch and adult foliage is produced. This foliage is still long and narrow with serrated margins but more green in colour and not so tough. As the tree ages, the leaves are not as long and it begins to look like a tree in shape rather than a tall single growth. The grey trunk develops large, long fissures, sometimes slightly twisted, with age. This tree matures at around 10 to 15 years of age.

Prefers full sun with well-drained soil. If soil is wet, these plants are prone to root rot. Will tolerate dry, coastal conditions.

Always choose healthy, well-grown, plants and plant after autumn rains, when the soil is moist and warm allows trees to establish a good root system well before summer. Planting is often improved on clay soils by adding extra topsoil and forming raised beds. Incorporate coarse sand, bark, peat, compost or other organic material to improve soil structure. Before planting, ensure the root ball is saturated and remove the planter bag or pot with minimal root disturbance. Trim any broken roots or branches and plant at the same level as in the container. Dig a hole twice the diameter of the root ball to plant in. Long term slow-release fertilisers may be added at this stage. As soil is placed in the prepared hole, tread firmly to bring soil in close contact with the root-ball. Unless the soil is wet, water thoroughly making sure that moisture penetrates to the depth of the root-ball. In windy positions, staking may be required. Use wide ties that hold securely without chafing. Tie firmly but allow room for the trunk to increase in girth without constriction. This allows the plant to move a little in the wind encouraging the development of a strong root system without the risk of chafing or root damage.

Apply an organic mulch annually to help suppress weeds and conserve moisture. Feed annually in spring with a balanced fertiliser such as blood and bone at a handful per square metre in spring as new growth begins. Fierce lancewood rarely needs any pruning and is usually trouble-free to grow as long as it is situated in free-draining soil.

Trouble-free.

Native Plant Ideas