Overview

Astelia banksii is a clump forming, bushy evergreen perennial in the genus Astelia, part of the Asteliaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Astelia banksii grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates sandy and well-drained soils and acid and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H3. Suggested uses include coastal gardens, erosion control and ornamental. It is native to New Zealand North.

About

Astelia banksii is an evergreen silver-green plant from the beaches of New Zealand. Its common names are coastal astelia, or, in Māori, kowharawhara, a name used for streams in Wellington and on Kapiti Island, though generally the southern limit of the plant is Kawhia and Tauranga.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Astelia banksii

About the genus

Astelia is a genus of flowering plants in the recently named family Asteliaceae. They are rhizomatous tufted perennials native to various islands in the Pacific, Indian, and South Atlantic Oceans, as well as to Australia and to the southernmost tip of South America. A significant number of the known species are endemic to New Zealand.

Wikipedia contributors, "Astelia", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Astelia

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Astelia

Sunlight

full sun, partial shade

Soil type

sandy, well-drained

Soil pH

Acid, Neutral

Soil moisture

moist

Aspect

East-facing, South-facing, West-facing

Exposure

coastal

UK hardiness

H3

Plant details

Astelia banksii size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

evergreen perennial

Habit

Clump forming, Bushy

Foliage

Evergreen

Suggested uses

coastal gardens, erosion control, ornamental

Native to

New Zealand North

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Astelia banksii

Cultivation

Prefers well-drained sandy soils, tolerates coastal conditions

Pruning

Remove dead or damaged leaves as needed

Propagation

division, seed

Pest resistance

Generally pest-free

Disease resistance

Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions