Question
I have been searching the web, encyclopedia's etc to find the proper name of a plant.  The only name that I know the plant by is the supposedly common name five finger plant or finger plant.  I believe that the plant is in the philodendron family but I am not 100% sure.  The leaves of the plant are  large dark-green, and shaped like a pasta fork turned upside down.  The plant grows to be very large in size.  Unfortunately I do not have any more information or pictures of this plant.  I do not know if it can grow outdoors, but I do know that the plant can not survive in very cold weather.  If you could help me with the proper name or plant family of this plant I would be most appreciative.  The plant is not all that common, but I dont believe that it is considered to be a rare plant either.   Thank you for your time and assistance.

Answer
Hi Chandra,

I believe that the plant you have is Pseudopanax arboreus. You can find a photo of it at:

http://www.nzseeds.co.nz/seed_list/Pseudopanax_arboreus.html

It comes from New Zealand and it is winter hardy in Zones 9-11, where temps do not fall below 25 degrees.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]

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