Phormium tenax, commonly known as New Zealand Flax, is a popular evergreen perennial plant in landscaping. It has striking, sword-like leaves that grow up to 2 meters in length. The plant produces tall flower spikes that attract birds and bees in summer. Phormium tenax is a hardy and low-maintenance plant that is ideal for coastal gardens and can tolerate a range of soils and weather conditions. It can be used as a focal point, border plant, or mass planting and adds a tropical feel to any garden.
Phormium tenax
NEW ZEALAND FLAX
Description
Height: Up to 2 metres.
Width: Up to 2 metres.
Aspect: Prefers full sun to partial shade and can grow in a wide range of soil types.
Flowers: Produces tall spikes of tubular flowers, which can vary in colour from red and orange to yellow and green. The flowers appear in summer and attract birds and pollinators.
Uses: Phormium tenax is a popular ornamental plant that is grown for its striking foliage and architectural shape. The plant is commonly used in landscaping, particularly in coastal and tropical gardens, and is often planted in mass plantings or as a focal point. The fibers from the leaves can be used to make textiles and baskets, and the plant has a long history of traditional use by the Maori people of New Zealand for medicinal purposes.
