About
A tough evergreen perennial with dull coppery-purple, strap-shaped leaves to 2m in length. Flowers reddish, in large panicles to 3m or taller.
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 typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing, North-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 usesGravel garden, Architectural, City and courtyard gardens, Coastal
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)