Schefflera digitata, commonly known as patē, is a distinctive evergreen shrub or small tree native to New Zealand. This species is a member of the Araliaceae family, which also includes other well-known plants like ivy. Patē is a significant component of the native flora, often found in moist, shaded environments within forests and along stream banks. The growth habit of Schefflera digitata is typically upright, forming a sparsely branched structure that can reach heights of up to 6 meters, though it often remains smaller. Its most striking feature is its palmate leaves, which are large and compound, resembling an open hand with several leaflets radiating from a central point. These leaflets are typically 7-10 in number, ovate to elliptic in shape, and possess a glossy, dark green upper surface with a paler, often hairy underside. The petioles, or leaf stalks, are long and can be quite robust. The bark is generally smooth and greyish. During the summer months, patē produces inflorescences of small, creamy-white flowers, which are arranged in umbels. These flowers are followed by small, fleshy, dark purple to black berries, which are a food source for native birds. Patē is endemic to New Zealand, where it is found in both the North and South Islands, extending to Stewart Island. It thrives in temperate climates and prefers damp, fertile soils in shaded to partially shaded locations. While it is adapted to the humid conditions of its native forests, it can also be cultivated in gardens where these conditions can be replicated. It is moderately frost-tolerant once established. Ecologically, Schefflera digitata plays a role in its native ecosystem by providing habitat and food for wildlife, particularly birds that consume its berries. Its presence is indicative of healthy, moist forest understories. While not widely cultivated for ornamental purposes outside of its native range, its unique foliage and form make it an interesting specimen plant for those seeking to grow New Zealand native flora. There is no significant documented agricultural, medicinal, or culinary use for Schefflera digitata. An interesting characteristic of patē is its adaptation to low light conditions, which is common for understory plants in dense forests. The large, compound leaves are efficient at capturing available sunlight. The production of fleshy berries is a clear adaptation for seed dispersal by frugivorous birds, a common strategy in many forest ecosystems.