Lancewood

Lancewood Overview

Pseudopanax crassifolius an evergreen tree from the Argophyllaceae family. This plant is commonly known by the names Lancewood or Horoeka and it originates from New Zealand. It can reach 15m in height and typically it doesn't branch for many years. The leaves are stiff and point down to the ground, they are leathery in texture and measure up to 90cm in length. The leaves have spine-tipped teeth along the edges and red midribs. Upon maturity, this plant starts branching, forming a rounded drown with palm-shaped leaves up to 20cm long, these are very different from the juvenile leaves produced for the first few years. This is thought to be a fascinating adaption to reduce the probability of young plants being eaten by herbivores. It is dioecious, and thus produces male and female flowers on individual plants. Flowers are star-like, 5 petalled and coloured green-white, these appear from summer to autumn and lead onto black berry fruits on female plants.

How to propagate Lancewood

Cuttings

Layering

Seed

Special features of Lancewood

Attractive leaves

Other uses of Lancewood

Grown for their unusual foliage and fruits. Used for landscaping and may also be grown in large containers. Insignificant flowers are produced in summer.