Overview

Astelia trinervia is a bushy herbaceous perennial in the genus Astelia, part of the Asteliaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Astelia trinervia grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and acid and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H3. Suggested uses include architectural, coastal, gravel garden, city and courtyard gardens, patio and container plants and flower borders and beds.

About

Astelia trinervia is a species of rhizomatous tufted perennial native to New Zealand. An example occurrence of this species is in the North Island's Hamilton Ecological District, where it occurs in the understory associated with Blechnum discolor (crown fern) and overstory forest elements of rimu and Nothofagus trees. Grow it in full sun and partial shade and most soil types. In UK gardens it is half-hardy and may need winter protection in colder areas (RHS H3). It works well for architectural, coastal, gravel garden, city and courtyard gardens, patio and container plants and flower borders and beds. It tolerates acid and neutral soils, moist but well-drained conditions and west-facing and east-facing aspects. Plant in well-drained soil in a suitable position. Water during establishment.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0Astelia trinervia

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Astelia

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
West-facing, East-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H3

Plant details

Astelia trinervia size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Herbaceous Perennial
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Evergreen
Suggested uses
Architectural, Coastal, Gravel garden, City and courtyard gardens, Patio and container plants, Flower borders and beds

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Astelia trinervia

Propagation
Division in spring, Seed sowing in cold frame as soon as ripe
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free, but may be susceptible to root rots

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Astelia trinervia?

Astelia trinervia prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Astelia trinervia need?

Astelia trinervia is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including clay, loam and sand. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

Is Astelia trinervia hardy in the UK?

Astelia trinervia has an RHS hardiness rating of H3, meaning it is half-hardy, tolerating -5 to 1°C, and may need winter protection in colder areas.

How do I propagate Astelia trinervia?

Division in spring, Seed sowing in cold frame as soon as ripe.

More in the Astelia genus

Browse all Astelia