About

A clump-forming, rhizomatous perennial from New Zealand with narrow, silver-grey, slightly keeled leaves and panicles of small, pale greenish flowers, followed by small, orange berries on female plants. A smaller-growing species suited to a sheltered, cool, moist, well-drained border.

About the genus

Oplopanax are a small genus of deciduous shrubs with spiny stems, large leaves and whitish to greenish flowers. They produce small, spherical red fruits which are attractive to birds. Species of Oplopanax can reach between 1 and 1.5m in height, but if undisturbed may grow upwards of 5m.

Plant details

Suggested usesBorders, hedging, specimen planting.

Care notes

CultivationPlant in well-drained soil in sun or part shade.
PruningPrune after flowering or late winter.
PropagationPropagate by division, cuttings, or seed.
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free.
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-resistant.