About
Phormium tenax, New Zealand flax, is a bold, evergreen perennial forming a large clump of upright, arching, strap-shaped, dark grey-green leaves. Tubular, dull-red flowers about 4 cm long are borne in panicles to 4 m in height in summer. A dramatic, architectural plant for a sheltered, sunny border or coastal garden.
About the genus
Phormium are striking, evergreen perennials from New Zealand forming large clumps of leathery, strap-shaped leaves and producing tall panicles of small, tubular flowers in summer. Bold, architectural plants for sheltered, sunny borders and coastal gardens.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitClump forming
FoliageEvergreen
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, City and courtyard gardens, Gravel garden, Coastal
Native toNew Zealand
Care notes
CultivationGrows best in fertile well-drained soil in full sun. May need protecting in northern climes
PruningDead or damaged leaves may be removed in the spring
PropagationPropagate by seed sown in spring or by division in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to phormium mealybug
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)