Phormium tenax - New Zealand flax (Pot 24 cm)

Genus that includes 2 species of evergreen perennials native to scrublands and swamps, hills and river banks, from the coasts to the mountains of New Zealand. Phormium tenax is a rapidly growing, bushy perennial herbaceous plant that forms large tufts. The leaves are rigid, erect, linear, up to 3 m long, dark green above, blue-green below. In summer it produces robust purple-red inflorescences, up to 4 m long. The flowers are tubular and dull red in colour. It can reach 4 m in height and the same in width.

Pedoclimatic needs

Grow in fertile, moist but drained soil, in sun or partial shade. Fairly rustic species, it resists up to -7°/-9°C. It cannot tolerate drought and must be watered regularly during the hot season. Since it forms large clumps over time, it is advisable to grow it in large spaces, as a single plant, or to cover flowerbeds or to create informal hedges. Also suitable for cultivation in large pots for terraces and balconies.

Botanical Information

Botanical Name: Phormium tenax

Family: Asphodeloideae