Pseudopanax edgerleyi

Family: Araliaceae

What it is like

Pseudopanax edgerleyi is an evergreen Shrub. It is in leaf all year. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). . The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Height (m): 0

Where it is found

Lowland to lower montane forests, North, South and Stewart Islands southwards from latitude 35°c.

New Zealand.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 0

Medicine

Rating: 0

Other

Rating: 2

An essential oil is obtained from the leaves.

Essential: Essential oils that are used in perfumery, medicines, paint solvents, insect repellents etc.

Scented Plants: Plants noted for their scent

How it is grown

We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain. It is unlikely to succeed outside the very mildest areas of the country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Requires a moist but well-drained humus rich soil in shade or full sun. Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus. Dioecious, male and female plants must be grown if seed is required.

Propagating it: Seed - best sown when ripe in the autumn in a warm greenhouse. The seed can be slow to germinate. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, July/August in a frame. Air layering.

Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Habit: Shrub

Hardiness:

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: Semi-shade, no shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Panax edgerleyi. Hook.f.