About
An evergreen, clump-forming perennial to 2m with broad, leathery, strap-shaped leaves, upright then arching, in dark olive-green with one or more pink stripes along the edges. Mature plants may produce clusters of dark red flowers on upright stems in summer.
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, Sand, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitClump forming
FoliageEvergreen
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Architectural, Coastal, Gravel garden, Mediterranean climate plants, 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
PruningRemove dead or damaged leaves in spring
PropagationPropagate by division in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to phormium mealybug
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)