Description
Pseudopanax lessonii, commonly known as the five-finger or lancewood tree, is a small evergreen tree native to New Zealand. Characterized by its distinctive, glossy, dark green, lance-shaped leaves, it grows primarily in forested regions. The plant starts with juvenile leaves that are long and narrow, resembling fingers, before maturing into broader, leathery leaves as it ages. It produces small, greenish flowers, followed by blue-black berries. Pseudopanax lessonii is valued for its ornamental qualities, resilience to a variety of soil types, and its ability to thrive in shaded or semi-shaded environments. It also holds cultural significance for Māori people.
