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Phormium tenax

New Zealand Flax

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

 

Description

New Zealand Flax is a large, bold plant with stiffly vertical, sword-like, green leaves that arise from its base. It should be grown under full sun for best color. Varieties will offer different growth habits and leaf color.

 

Plant Type

Shrub

Height Range

3-6', 6-12'

Width Range

3-6', 6-12'

Flower Color

Red, Yellow

Flower Season

Summer

Leaf Color

Green, Dark Green

Bark Color

n/a

Fruit Color

n/a

Fruit Season

n/a

Sun

Full, Half, Shade

Water

Low

Growth Rate

Fast

Soil Type

Sandy, Clay, Loam, Rocky, Unparticular

Soil Condition

Poor, Moist

Soil pH

Neutral

Adverse Factors

n/a

Design Styles

Mediterranean, Seascape, Tropical

Accenting Features

Showy Flowers, Silhouette, Specimen

Seasonal Interest

Summer

Location Uses

Background, Foundation, Patio, Swimming Pool

Special Uses

Container, Cut Flowers, Screen, Wind Break

Attracts Wildlife

n/a

Water Saving Tip:

Replace turf with groundcovers, trees, and shrubs.

If you have areas where no one uses the grass, patches that do not grow well, or a turf area too small to water without runoff, consider replacing the turf with water-efficient landscaping.