About
A compact, evergreen perennial to 60cm tall forming clumps of narrow, arching variegated leaves to 35cm long and 1.3cm wide; each leaf blade is predominantly cream-coloured with narrow green bands bordered by a thin grey-purple outer margin.
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
AspectSouth-facing, East-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Mediterranean climate plants, Architectural, City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Gravel garden
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)