About
An evergreen perennial forming a clump of upright to slightly arching, strap-shaped, dark reddish-purple leaves to 1.2m high and wide. Mature plants may produce panicles of red flowers in late simmer.
About the genus
Phormium are evergreen perennials, making a large clump of leathery, strap-shaped leaves, with tall panicles of small, tubular flowers in summer
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Mediterranean climate plants, Architectural, City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Gravel garden, Patio and container plants
Care notes
CultivationGrows best in fertile well-drained soil in full sun. May need the protection of a deep, dry winter mulch in northern and frost prone areas
PruningDead or damaged leaves may be removed in the spring
PropagationPropagate by division in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to phormium mealybug
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)