Phormium tenax
New Zealand flax
P. tenax is a robust evergreen perennial making a medium-sized clump of dark grey-green, strap-shaped leaves. Tubular, dull red flowers about 4cm in length, in a panicle to 4m in height
Size
Ultimate height
2.5–4 metresTime to ultimate height
10–20 yearsUltimate spread
1.5–2.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green Grey Silver | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Red | Green Grey Silver | ||
| Autumn | Green Grey Silver | |||
| Winter | Green Grey Silver |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or North–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Asphodelaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Genus
Phormium are evergreen perennials, making a large clump of leathery, strap-shaped leaves, with tall panicles of small, tubular flowers in summer
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- New Zealand
How to grow
Cultivation
Grows best in fertile well-drained soil in full sun. May need protecting in northern climes
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown in spring or by division in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Architectural
- City and courtyard gardens
- Gravel garden
- Coastal
- Low Maintenance
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Dead or damaged leaves may be removed in the spring
Pests
May be susceptible to phormium mealybug
Diseases
May be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.