About
A clump-forming evergreen perennial with erect, strap-shaped leaves to 1.8m in length, green striped with cream towards the margins. Flowers dull red, in large panicles.
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
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageEvergreen
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Architectural
Care notes
CultivationGrow in fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun. In frost-prone areas, provide a deep, dry mulch in winter
PruningDeadhead in autumn to prevent winter rocking which can damage the plant
PropagationPropagate by division in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to phormium mealybug
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)