Phormium tenax
New Zealand Flax / Harakeke
Description:
Iconic evergreen New Zealand native with bold, upright, sword-like leaves that form large, architectural clumps. The broad, strap-like foliage ranges from green to olive-green and provides year-round structure in the landscape. In summer, mature plants produce tall, dramatic flower spikes bearing tubular red to yellow-green flowers that are rich in nectar and highly attractive to tūī, bellbirds, and other native birds. Exceptionally hardy and adaptable, Phormium tenax is ideal for coastal, native, and contemporary gardens.
Height:
1.5–3m
Width:
1.5–2.5m
Position:
Full sun to part shade. Thrives in exposed sites and tolerates wind, coastal conditions, and light to moderate frost.
Soil:
Prefers fertile, moist, well-drained soil but adapts to a wide range of soil types, including clay, sandy, and coastal soils. Tolerates seasonal wetness better than Phormium cookianum once established.
Uses:
- Native and coastal gardens
- Feature or specimen planting
- Mass planting and screening
- Erosion control on banks and slopes
- Wetland margins and rain gardens
- Wildlife-friendly gardens
Care Tips:
- Water regularly during establishment; once established it tolerates drought, wind, and coastal exposure
- Remove old or damaged leaves and spent flower stalks at the base to maintain a tidy appearance
- Apply a balanced slow-release fertiliser in spring to encourage healthy foliage growth
- Divide established clumps in spring or autumn if plants become overcrowded
- Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping mulch clear of the crown
- Extremely hardy and well suited to New Zealand conditions, tolerating coastal exposure, heavy soils, seasonal wetness, and light to moderate frost
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.
