Phormium tenax 'Aurora' (New Zealand Flax 'Aurora') — Perennial

Overview

Phormium tenax 'Aurora' is a perennial in the genus Phormium, part of the Asphodelaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 3.0 m tall. Phormium tenax 'Aurora' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include borders, containers and architectural plant. It is native to New Zealand.

About the genus

Phormium is a genus of two plant species in the family Asphodelaceae. One species is endemic to New Zealand and the other is native to New Zealand and Norfolk Island. The two species are widely known in New Zealand as flax or their Māori names wharariki and harakeke respectively, and elsewhere as New Zealand flax or flax lily, but they are not closely related to the Northern Hemisphere's flax, which is native to the region extending from the eastern Mediterranean to India and has been used by humans since 30,000 B.C.

Wikipedia contributors, "Phormium", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Phormium

In the garden

A native of New Zealand, Phormium tenax 'Aurora' grows as an evergreen perennial that can reach around 3.0 m in height and provides strong vertical form in the border or a large container. It belongs to the Asphodelaceae family and is valued where an architectural, upright presence is required. Sit 'Aurora' in full sun where possible; it will accept sandy, loamy or clay soils and copes with moist but well-drained conditions and wetter ground better than many perennials. Its UK hardiness is H4 (average), so it will survive typical garden winters across most of the UK; the equivalent USDA range is zones 8–10. Plant in free-draining but moisture-retentive soil and avoid deep shade to keep the leaves vigorous. Use this Phormium at the back of a mixed border, as a focal specimen, or in a large container to emphasise vertical lines. Flower spikes rise above the foliage and add summer interest; expect blooms from June to August. Cut away spent flowering stalks to tidy the clump and maintain its sculptural outline.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Phormium

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Sandy, Loamy, Clay
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained, Wet
UK hardiness: H4

Plant details

Phormium tenax 'Aurora' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Perennial
Foliage: Evergreen
Height: 3.0 m
Suggested uses: Borders, Containers, Architectural plant
Native to: New Zealand

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Phormium tenax 'Aurora'

Cultivation: Prefers moist, well-drained soil; tolerates wet conditions; plant in full sun for best leaf color
Pruning: Remove old or damaged leaves to maintain appearance
Propagation: Division of clumps in spring or autumn

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Phormium tenax 'Aurora'?

Prefers moist, well-drained soil; tolerates wet conditions; plant in full sun for best leaf color.

Where is the best place to plant Phormium tenax 'Aurora'?

Phormium tenax 'Aurora' prefers full sun.

What soil does Phormium tenax 'Aurora' need?

Phormium tenax 'Aurora' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to wet.

How do I prune Phormium tenax 'Aurora'?

Remove old or damaged leaves to maintain appearance.

How big does Phormium tenax 'Aurora' grow?

Phormium tenax 'Aurora' reaches a height of 3.0 m.

Is Phormium tenax 'Aurora' hardy in the UK?

Phormium tenax 'Aurora' has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.