New Zealand Flax

Phormium tenax is native to, you guessed it, New Zealand, where the fibre has been widely utilised, originally in M?ori traditional textiles and also in rope and sail making until the 1940’s. Bronzy-red flowers are produced on very tall stems from July to September to a background of strap-like leathery leaves. New Zealand Flax works very well in windy and coastal areas, adding strong architectural impact to low maintenance gardens or mixed shrub and flower borders or it can be grown as a windbreak.

Site: Tolerates extreme coastal exposure
Soil: Well drained soils
Position: Full sun
Season of Interest: Evergreen foliage, red flowers in late Summer/Autumn
Hardiness: Fully hardy, may need some Winter protection in cold areas
Height: 8-13ft (2.5-4m)  Spread: 5-8ft (1.5-2.5m)