Also known as Five-Finger · Five-Fingers · Whauwhaupaku
Five Finger (Neopanax arboreus) is a fast-growing native New Zealand tree with distinctive palmate leaves, ideal for screening and adding lushness to gardens.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect light
75% intensity
Prefers full sun to partial shade. Protect from intense afternoon sun in hot climates.
Keep soil consistently moist
50% intensity
Allow top soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce in winter.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Average room temperature
50% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 15-24°C. Can tolerate cooler temperatures in winter.
Moderate feeding during growth
50% intensity
Apply balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks in spring and summer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Allow the top few centimeters of soil to dry out between waterings.
Reduce watering during the cooler winter months when the plant's growth slows down. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches to maintain a good shape and encourage bushier growth.
Light pruning can be done at any time to shape the plant or remove unwanted stems.
Easily propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in a moist, well-draining potting mix.
Keep the cuttings in a warm, humid environment with bright, indirect light until roots form.
Repot young plants annually in spring. Mature plants can be repotted every 2-3 years, or when root-bound. Use a good quality, well-draining potting mix.
Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one to allow for root growth.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Five Finger (Neopanax arboreus)
Where Five Finger (Neopanax arboreus) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Family | Araliaceae |
| Genus | Neopanax |
| Species | Neopanax arboreus |
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
