Phormium tenax

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New Zealand Flax

 
Plant photo of: Phormium tenax
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Information by: Jerry Sortomme        Photographer: Normans/Sortomme

 

Description

New Zealand Flax is a large, bold perennial with stiffly vertical, sword-like, green leaves that arise from its base, reaching 6'-9' tall. It should be grown under full sun for best color. Varieties will offer different growth habits and leaf color. Many varieties have reddish yellow flowers in summer but may be considered insignificant.

 

  • Anatomy

  • Sun/Water

  • Design

Plant Type

Perennial

 

Height Range

6-12'

 

Flower Color

Red, Yellow

 

Flower Season

Summer

 

Leaf Color

Bronze, Green, Dark Green, Variegated

 

Bark Color

n/a

 

Fruit Color

n/a

 

Fruit Season

n/a

Sun

Full, Half, Shade

 

Water

Low, Medium

 

Growth Rate

Fast

 

Soil Type

Unparticular

 

Soil Condition

Poor, Moist

 

Soil pH

Neutral

 

Adverse Factors

n/a

Design Styles

Mediterranean, Ranch, Seascape, Spanish, Tropical

 

Accenting Features

Silhouette, Unusual Foliage

 

Seasonal Interest

Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

 

Location Uses

Background, Foundation, Patio, Park, Parking Lot, Swimming Pool, Walls / Fences

 

Special Uses

Container, Cut Flowers, Screen, Wind Break

 

Attracts Wildlife

n/a

Water Saving Tip:

Water-wise plants can be beautiful as well as practical.

Take your 'My List' Hydrozone Report to a landscape designer, or local nursery, when selecting and purchasing plants.