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astelia plant nz

Astelia plant NZ enthusiasts know that these striking New Zealand natives are much more than just garden fillers—they’re true statement-makers. With their bold, sword-like foliage and varied silvery, green, or bronzed tones, Astelia plants offer texture and colour that bring vibrancy to both modern landscapes and native gardens throughout Aotearoa. Whether you’re seeking a resilient plant for sun or shade, a feature for a container, or an architectural accent for a border, the Astelia plant genus has a versatile solution that thrives in New Zealand conditions.

Large Astelia chathamica in a garden with silver flax-like leaves.

Astelia chathamica (Chatham Island Astelia)

Astelia chathamica, commonly known as the Chatham Island Astelia or Kakaha, produces broad, erect, silver-green leaves. The leaves are held with a...

From$299.92
Astelia Frosted Bronze plants with colourful foliage in a pot.

Astelia 'Frosted Bronze'

Astelia 'Frosted Bronze' features striking and colourful foliage. The new leaves emerge a red-bronze colour and age to become silver with a hint of...

From$29.63
Large Astelia banksii with cascading green leaves.

Astelia banksii (Wharawhara)

Astelia banksii, commonly known as Wharawhara or Shore Astelia, is a striking New Zealand native plant celebrated for its silver-grey, strap-like...

OUT OF STOCK
Astelia fragrans (Bush Flax) plant with lush green foliage growing beside a track.

Astelia fragrans (Bush Flax)

Astelia fragrans, commonly known as Bush Flax or Kakaha, is a hardy, clump-forming native plant of New Zealand. It features long, arching green...

OUT OF STOCK
Fantastic red and grey flax-like foliage on a large Astelia Westland plant.

Astelia 'Westland'

Astelia 'Westland' features striking and colourful fronds with the new fronds emerging a red-bronze colour and aging to become silver-green. It has a...

OUT OF STOCK
Astelia grandis plant with green leaves.

Astelia grandis (Swamp Astelia)

Astelia grandis, known as Swamp Astelia, is a striking native plant found in damp, lowland forests and wetlands across New Zealand. It forms large...

OUT OF STOCK
A large Astelia nervosa (Mountain Astelia) plant with colourful foliage in a semi-shaded spot.

Astelia nervosa (Mountain Astelia)

Astelia nervosa, or Mountain Astelia, is a striking New Zealand native valued for its colourful, sword-like foliage. The leaves range from...

OUT OF STOCK
Astelia 'Rebel' large plants with silver-red foliage in a garden.

Astelia 'Rebel'

Astelia 'Rebel' is a variety selected for its impressive, dark red-brown foliage. The long and slender leaves are held somewhat stiffly and densely...

OUT OF STOCK
Astelia 'Red Devil' plant growing a in pot with other colourful plants.

Astelia 'Red Devil'

Astelia 'Red Devil' is a compact, clump-forming native plant prized for its striking red-bronze foliage. Reaching approximately 60 cm in height and...

OUT OF STOCK
Large Astelia Silver Shadow plant with flax-like, silver and green coloured leaves.

Astelia 'Silver Shadow'

Astelia 'Silver Shadow' is a distinctive plant with its sword-shaped, silver foliage. The leaves have a graceful arch, which makes for an attractive...

OUT OF STOCK
Astelia Silver Spear plant with beautiful silver foliage.

Astelia 'Silver Spear'

Astelia 'Silver Spear', commonly known as Kakaha) features striking silver foliage that is held in a gentle arch. It typically grows to 1.5 m tall...

OUT OF STOCK
Astelia solandri (Perching Lily) plant with lush green foliage and pink flowers.

Astelia solandri (Perching Lily)

Astelia solandri, also known as Perching Lily or Kowharawhara, is a native New Zealand epiphytic or ground-dwelling plant with broad, arching green...

OUT OF STOCK
Astelia trinervia plant.

Astelia trinervia (Kauri Grass)

Astelia trinervia, commonly known as Kauri Grass, is a tall, NZ native Astelia. It grows as a clump and produces long, narrow, bright green leaves...

OUT OF STOCK
Astelia chathamica (Chatham Island Astelia)

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You might be interested in exploring our full range of Astelia or related Categories - Flaxes.

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Why Choose Astelia Plants for Your NZ Garden?

Astelia plants have adapted beautifully to the unique climate and soils found across NZ, making them an excellent choice for both coastal and inland gardens. Their robust root systems anchor soil, helping control erosion, while the lush foliage provides year-round structure. Many varieties, such as Astelia chathamica (Chatham Island Astelia), sport shimmering silvery leaves and can tolerate wind, salt, and even periods of drought once established. These qualities make Astelia not only visually appealing but also reliably hardy and low maintenance.

Popular Astelia Varieties in New Zealand

The Astelia genus offers a range of exceptional species and cultivars, each with its own unique character. For a dramatic silver display, consider Astelia chathamica (Chatham Island Astelia) or the refined Astelia 'Silver Shadow'. Looking to warm up borders or pots? Astelia 'Frosted Bronze' brings shimmering bronze tones perfect for bold contrasts. Astelia banksii (Wharawhara) is a traditional favourite, revered for its cultural importance as much as its lush, arching greenery. For a contemporary twist, try the eye-catching Astelia 'Rebel', which delivers compact growth and unique colouration.

Ideal Growing Conditions for Astelia Plant NZ

Astelia plant NZ varieties generally prefer moist but well-drained soil and benefit from a layer of mulch to retain moisture and keep their roots cool. While many species thrive in full sun, they’re equally happy in dappled shade, especially in hot northern areas. These adaptable plants tolerate coastal exposure and mild frosts, making them suitable for almost any New Zealand garden. Simply choose a spot sheltered from harsh afternoon rays for more sensitive types, and water well during establishment.

Using Astelia Plants in Landscape Design

The textural drama and year-round interest of Astelia make them ideal as specimen plants, mass plantings, or ground covers in both native and mixed gardens. Use a grouping of Astelia 'Frosted Bronze' for dynamic foliage contrast, or select Astelia banksii (Wharawhara) to anchor large borders and add movement in the breeze. Container plantings of Astelia 'Rebel' look stunning flanking entryways or patios, while Astelia chathamica (Chatham Island Astelia) makes an excellent low-maintenance solution for difficult spots.

Let Astelia plant NZ selections become the highlight of your outdoor space, blending iconic New Zealand character with enduring beauty and practicality. Consider the diversity of Astelia to create lasting impact in your garden, no matter the style or setting.


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Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

–The Plant Company

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