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Ferox grows as a single leader specimen steadily to three metres within ten years, to a maximum 8m. P.ferox leaves are 30-45 cm long, lanceolate, and in the juvenile, point sharply down from the bole. They are dark-green to blackish, coriaceous, rigid, and have much more sharply-toothed margins than their brother, P.crassifolius. Leaves are well-spaced on a slender trunk for 20-30 years until Ferox changes to its adult form of a pompom-shaped crown with leaves much reduced in size, at the top of a slender bare trunk.
Horoeka grows in a similar fashion to the less common Ferox except that its juvenile leaves are less fiercely serrated, and are longer (up to a metre though more usually 30-50cm). As the trunk develops only the upper reaches tend to have leaves. Horoeka juvenile stage is 10-15 years, and then it assumes the same pompom shape foliage as Ferox but grows to a higher maximum of 15m.
Both forms flower green-yellow at maturity from March to May in large compound umbels at branch ends. Pollinated by insects, the flowers develop in P.crassifolius into 5mm round, black fruit which ripens in November and December and is a good food source for birds. P.ferox has larger fruit up to 9mm.
Both species are extraordinarily hardy and do well in arid coastal environments, although Ferox is considered hardier than his brother. Both endure drought and moderate frost. Both are found throughout the country but in sparse populations.
Pseudopanax ferox and P.crassifolius make striking additions in large plantings and their slender trunks and slow growth are particularly suitable in smaller gardens. They thrive in full sun on well-drained soil but are inclined to root-rot in consistently wet soils.
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