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Description
Neopanax Kermadecensis, commonly known as the Kermadec neopanax, is a species of evergreen shrub native to the Kermadec Islands, located northeast of New Zealand. It belongs to the Araliaceae family and is a close relative of the ginseng plant. The Kermadec neopanax can grow up to 4 meters tall and 3 meters wide, making it a popular choice for landscaping in coastal areas. It has large, glossy, dark green leaves that are divided into 5-7 leaflets, each measuring up to 20 cm in length. The plant produces small, white flowers in summer, followed by small black berries in autumn.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Araliaceae |
| Genus | Neopanax |
Appearance
The Kermadec neopanax is a tall, evergreen shrub with a dense, bushy habit. Its leaves are large and glossy, with each leaflet measuring up to 20 cm in length. The leaflets are arranged in a palmate pattern, radiating from a central point, and are deeply lobed. The plant produces small, white flowers in summer, followed by small black berries in autumn. The Kermadec neopanax is a popular choice for coastal landscaping due to its attractive appearance and hardy nature.
Care Guide
The Kermadec neopanax is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on caring for this plant:
- Water: The Kermadec neopanax prefers moist soil, but can tolerate periods of drought.
- Fertilization: The plant benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The Kermadec neopanax prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The Kermadec neopanax is hardy to USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Kermadec neopanax is relatively pest and disease-free, but can be susceptible to the following:
- Scale insects: These pests can cause yellowing and wilting of leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on leaves. It can be treated with a fungicide.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and poorly-draining soil. It can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage.
Habitat
The Kermadec neopanax is native to the Kermadec Islands, located northeast of New Zealand. It grows in coastal areas, often on rocky cliffs and slopes. The plant is hardy and can tolerate salt spray and harsh coastal conditions. It is often used in coastal landscaping due to its attractive appearance and hardiness.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Kermadec neopanax a good choice for coastal landscaping?
A: Yes, the Kermadec neopanax is a hardy plant that can tolerate harsh coastal conditions, making it an ideal choice for coastal landscaping.
Q: How tall can the Kermadec neopanax grow?
A: The Kermadec neopanax can grow up to 4 meters tall and 3 meters wide.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Kermadec neopanax?
A: The Kermadec neopanax is hardy to USDA zones 9-11.
Q: Does the Kermadec neopanax require a lot of care?
A: No, the Kermadec neopanax is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Related Plants
- Neopanax Arboreus
- Neopanax Laetevirens
- Neopanax Robustum
References
- “Neopanax kermadecensis.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. https://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/neopanax-kermadecensis/.
- “Neopanax kermadecensis.” Plants of the World Online. http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:925834-1.
- “Neopanax kermadecensis.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/189524/Neopanax-kermadecensis/Details.
