Phormium cookianum
Mountain Flax / Wharariki
Description:
Graceful New Zealand native flax with soft, arching, green leaves and a more refined appearance than the larger Phormium tenax (Harakeke). Its narrower, drooping foliage creates an elegant texture in the garden, making it a popular choice for naturalistic and coastal landscapes. In summer, tall flower stalks rise above the foliage, carrying tubular yellow-green to orange-red flowers that provide nectar for native birds such as tūī and bellbirds. A hardy and adaptable species suited to a wide range of New Zealand conditions.
Height:
0.6–1.5m
Width:
1–1.5m
Position:
Full sun to part shade. Tolerates wind, coastal exposure, and light frost. Performs best with good airflow and shelter from extreme conditions.
Soil:
Prefers moist, well-drained soil but adapts to a range of soil types, including sandy and poorer soils. Avoid prolonged waterlogged conditions, particularly in heavy clay soils.
Uses:
- Native and coastal gardens
- Banks, slopes, and erosion control planting
- Mass planting or specimen planting
- Wildlife-friendly gardens (flowering plants provide nectar for native birds)
- Low-maintenance landscapes
- Large containers and feature planting
Care Tips:
- Water regularly while establishing; once established it tolerates dry periods
- Remove old or damaged leaves at the base to maintain a tidy appearance
- Divide established clumps in spring or autumn if plants become overcrowded
- Apply a balanced slow-release fertiliser in spring to encourage healthy growth
- Mulch around plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping mulch away from the crown
- Hardy in New Zealand conditions, tolerating coastal winds and light frost once established
We have made every effort to display as accurately as possible the grade and quality of the plant in the images.
Plants are subject to availability; there is a slight possibility the plants can be sold before your order is processed. In this instance we can offer a refund or credit and let you know when more plants become available.
