Pseudopanax x lessonii Rangatira

Pseudopanax 'Rangatira' stands out with its magnificent purple to violet-bronze foliage that becomes more intense in winter. It is a rare and exotic, evergreen bush that will delight collectors and other enthusiasts of curiosities. It forms a bush with a compact habit and dense foliage that can reach 2m in height and 1.5m in width. Hardy down to -7°C, it is the ideal plant for regions with a mild climate or coastal areas. It tolerates wind well. In less favourable regions, gardeners can plant it in a pot on a terrace and protect it from heavy frost in winter.

From the Araliaceae family, Pseudopanax lessonii is native to the coastal, humid and cool areas of New Zealand. It has many hybrids that have become more popular than itself. The 'Rangatira' variety forms a rather compact medium-sized bush. Its growth is quite slow. Its tough leaves are divided into 3 narrow and elongated leaflets. They are violet-bronze to intense purple and toothed. The colour intensifies in winter. Female plants flower in hot summers. The flowers, although insignificant, attract pollinating insects. They are followed by black berries that birds enjoy.

Hardy down to -7°C when sheltered from cold and dry winds. Planting in the ground is reserved for mild climates, including coastal areas. Everywhere else, this collector's plant can be grown in a large pot that can be stored in a veranda or greenhouse before the first frost. It appreciates non-calcareous, humus-bearing, well-drained soils. It will make a sensation around a swimming pool or in a varied hedge in mild regions. Pair it with heucheras, both in pots and in borders. Play with contrasts with 'Caramel' heuchera with orange foliage or 'Citronelle' heuchera with lime green to yellow foliage.