About
An evergreen, clump-forming perennial with arching, strap-shaped leaves to 1m in length, heavily striped with bright yellow and green. Dark red flowers are seldom produced.
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, East-facing, South-facing, North-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitClump forming
FoliageEvergreen
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Architectural, City and courtyard gardens, Gravel garden
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 division in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to phormium mealybug
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)