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astelia species

Astelia species are a stunning group of evergreen plants that bring bold architectural flair to New Zealand gardens. Widely appreciated for their spectacular silver-green foliage and resilience, different Astelia species thrive in diverse conditions, from native forests to windswept alpine regions. These plants suit gardeners seeking dramatic texture, low-maintenance greenery, and a distinctly Kiwi character for their landscapes.

Aristotelia serrata (Wineberry) tree with masses of black berries.

Aristotelia serrata (Wineberry)

Aristotelia serrata, commonly known as Wineberry or Makomako, is a fast-growing, deciduous native tree of New Zealand. It features serrated green leaves, reddish young stems, and masses of small pinkish-red flowers in spring, followed by dark berries that attract birds.

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type: Trees
Height: 10.00 m
Spread: 4.00 m
Flowering time: Spring
Tolerances: Hardy
Garden uses: Hedging, Parks, Specimen
Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Formal, Frontyard, Modern, Native
Leptospermum 'Burgundy Queen' double red flowers.

Leptospermum 'Burgundy Queen'

5 from 3 customers

Leptospermum 'Burgundy Queen' is a stunning evergreen shrub admired for its profusion of double burgundy red flowers that appear from spring through summer. Its fine foliage and upright habit make it an attractive feature in any NZ garden. Hardy and resilient, it tolerates a wide range of conditions, including coastal sites.

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Shrubs
Height: 2.50 m
Spread: 2.00 m
Flowering time: Spring, Winter
Tolerances: Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy, Wind
Garden uses: Hedging, Living areas, Parks, Ponds, Pool areas, Screening, Specimen
Garden styles: Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Formal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Native, Riparian
Juncus pallidus (Giant Rush) plants in a landscaped garden.
Juncus pallidus (Giant Rush)

Juncus pallidus, commonly known as the Giant Rush, features erect, dark green leaves and grows as a tidy clump, reaching approximately 75 cm in...

From$16.49
A large Agathis australis (Kauri tree) in a native reserve.
Agathis australis (New Zealand Kauri)

Agathis australis, commonly known as the Kauri tree, is a revered New Zealand native conifer renowned for its immense size and longevity. Reaching...

From$34.95
Griselinia lucida hedge with lush and large, green foliage.
Griselinia lucida

Griselinia lucida, commonly known as Akapuka, is a striking New Zealand native shrub or small tree characterized by its large, leathery, and glossy...

From$12.95
Pittosporum ralphii olive-green foliage.
Pittosporum ralphii (Ralphs Karo)

Pittosporum ralphii is a hardy, evergreen native shrub or small tree ideal for hedging, screening, and native planting projects across New Zealand...

From$26.15
Metrosideros 'Lighthouse' plant with red flowers and olive-green foliage.
Metrosideros 'Lighthouse'

Metrosideros 'Lighthouse' is a compact and hardy NZ native shrub renowned for its vibrant red flowers that burst into colour during summer. Its...

From$515.35
Libertia paniculata plant with white flowers.
Libertia paniculata (Grass Flag)

Libertia paniculata is an elegant evergreen perennial admired for its fine, upright foliage and delicate white flowers that appear in airy clusters...

From$16.50
Hoheria angustifolia green foliage with masses of white flowers.
Hoheria angustifolia

Hoheria angustifolia, commonly known as Houhere or Narrow leaved Lacebark, is a fast growing New Zealand native tree admired for its graceful form...

From$19.25
Beilschmiedia tarairi (Taraire) trees growing in a modern garden.
Beilschmiedia tarairi (Taraire)

Beilschmiedia tarairi, commonly known as the Taraire tree, is a unique, NZ native tree. Its prominent feature is the masses of olive-like, purple...

From$270.40
pimelea-mimosa--1
Pimelea mimosa

Pimelea mimosa is an attractive evergreen shrub valued for its fine textured foliage, compact growth habit, and clusters of delicate flowers. This...

From$15.95
Sophora microphylla specimen tree covered in yellow flowers.
Sophora microphylla (Small Leaved Kōwhai)

Sophora microphylla, commonly known as Weeping Kowhai, is a treasured New Zealand native tree admired for its graceful, drooping branches and masses...

From$28.91
Sophora longicarinata yellow flowers.
Sophora longicarinata (Limestone Kowhai)

Sophora longicarinata is a rare and beautiful NZ native tree belonging to the kowhai family. This evergreen to semi deciduous species is admired for...

From$323.65
dymondia-margaretae-2
Dymondia margaretae

Dymondia margaretae (Silver Carpet) is a hardy low growing groundcover valued for its attractive silver green foliage and dense spreading habit. This...

From$13.95
A Sophora chathamica tree growing in a garden with green foliage.
Sophora chathamica

Sophora chathamica (Coastal Kōwhai) is a stunning New Zealand native tree known for its masses of bright yellow flowers that appear in early spring...

From$33.05
A large Prumnopitys ferruginea (Miro Tree) with lush, green foliage.
Prumnopitys ferruginea

Prumnopitys ferruginea, commonly known as Miro, is a majestic New Zealand native tree belonging to the Podocarp family. This long lived evergreen...

From$408.85
Ficinia nodosa (Knobby Club Rush) plants growing in sand and displaying lush, green foliage.
Ficinia nodosa (Knobby Club Rush)

Ficinia nodosa, commonly known as Knobby Club Rush, is a NZ native grass that features stout, mid-green foliage. In cold or exposed climates, the...

From$14.49
Juncus maritimus (Sea Rush) plants growing in saline water.
Juncus maritimus (Sea Rush)

Juncus maritimus, commonly known as Sea Rush, is a species of rush that prevails in coastal areas. It has long and rigid leaves that are lime-green...

From$16.49
fraxinus-ornus-2
Fraxinus ornus

Fraxinus ornus (Flowering Ash) is an elegant deciduous tree admired for its fragrant creamy white flower clusters that appear in late spring and...

From$387.55
Pittosporum 'Limelight' variegated foliage.
Pittosporum 'Limelight' (Kohuhu)

Pittosporum 'Limelight' is a NZ native shrub that features dark green leaves with a lime green centre, held densely on upright stems. This evergreen...

From$22.01
Pittosporum eugenioides tree with lush, dark green foliage and cream-coloured flowers.
Pittosporum eugenioides (Tarata)

Pittosporum eugenioides, commonly known as Tarata or Lemonwood, is a fast-growing native New Zealand tree valued for its glossy green leaves and...

From$15.04
A Metrosideros robusta (Northern Rata) tree in full flower in a native reserve.
Metrosideros robusta

Metrosideros robusta, commonly known as Northern Rata, is a majestic New Zealand native tree renowned for its brilliant red flowers and large...

From$323.65
Acer griseum specimen tree in a park.
Acer griseum

Acer griseum (Paperbark Maple) is a highly sought after deciduous tree prized for its beautiful peeling cinnamon coloured bark and outstanding autumn...

From$249.95
Ribes rubrum red berries on a shrub.
Ribes rubrum

Ribes rubrum is a productive red currant species valued for its bright, tangy berries and reliable performance in NZ gardens. It forms a tidy shrub...

From$30.29
Typha orientalis (Raupo) plants with brown seed heads.
Typha orientalis (Raupō)

Typha orientalis, commonly known as Raupo, is a vigorous and erect, NZ native grass. It is found throughout New Zealand in shallow, fertile waters...

From$14.84
Laurelia novae-zelandiae

Laurelia novae-zelandiae, commonly known as Pukatea, is a magnificent NZ native tree admired for its glossy green leaves, fluted trunk, and...

From$589.90
An immaculate Fine Fescue lawn in a modern and formal garden.
Fine Fescue Lawn Seed

Fine Fescue lawn seed is ideal for homeowners seeking a lush, fine-textured lawn that thrives in shaded areas and requires minimal maintenance. This...

From$48.49
Kikuyu lawn featuring a lush and dense tuf.
Kikuyu (Blended Kikuyu Lawn Seed)

A Kikuyu lawn is suited to warmer regions and coastal areas where hot and humid summers are less well suited to other turf species. The variety of...

From$52.42
Phyllocladus trichomanoides lush green foliage.
Phyllocladus trichomanoides (Celery Pine)

Phyllocladus trichomanoides, commonly called Celery Pine, is a striking New Zealand native tree valued for its unique, celery like foliage and tall...

From$515.35
Hedycarya arborea tree with lush green foliage.
Hedycarya arborea

Hedycarya arborea, commonly known as Pigeonwood, is a New Zealand native tree valued for its attractive foliage and wildlife benefits. This evergreen...

From$494.05
A Kikuyu grass lawn bordered by a garden.
Pure Kikuyu Seed

Kikuyu grass is suited to warmer regions and coastal areas where hot and humid summers are less well suited to other turf species. The variety of...

From$71.40
An exquisite Tall Fescue lawn.
Tall Fescue

Tall Fescue is an excellent lawn grass choice for New Zealand homeowners seeking a dark green, tough, and attractive lawn. It is widely used by ready...

From$13.46
Aristotelia serrata (Wineberry)

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Agathis, Aristotelia, and Beilschmiedia, or related Categories - Grasses, Perennials, and Evergreen Shrubs.

Search astelia species

Exploring Astelia Species in New Zealand

The genus Astelia features a range of species, each with unique qualities suitable for both residential and commercial planting. Many Astelia species are indigenous to New Zealand, endearing them to local garden enthusiasts for their hardiness and cultural significance. These clumping, rhizomatous perennials typically feature sword-like leaves, which can take on shades of silver, green, bronze, or even reddish tones, depending on the variety.

Among the most popular Astelia species grown in New Zealand is Astelia banksii (Wharawhara), revered for its broad, silver-green foliage and traditional uses by Māori. Likewise, Astelia fragrans (Bush Flax) impresses with its upright, glossy leaves and adaptability to semi-shade, making it perfect for woodland gardens and mixed borders. Gardeners looking for a hardier option often select Astelia nervosa (Mountain Astelia), which boasts tough, silver-flecked leaves well-suited to alpine or coastal environments.

Less commonly found but equally striking, Astelia solandri (Perching Lily) is an epiphytic species often spotted anchoring itself on tree branches in moist forests, while the cultivated Astelia 'Silver Shadow' offers a refined, silvery accent for contemporary garden designs.

How to Grow Astelia Species Successfully

One of the best features of Astelia species is their adaptability. These plants typically prefer moist, well-drained soils and partial shade, but many are robust enough to tolerate full sun, coastal winds, and periods of dryness once established. Mulching helps retain soil moisture, and an annual feed in spring can encourage lush, healthy growth. Astelia species are evergreen, so they provide all-year interest—ideal for mass planting, containers, edging pathways, or creating bold focal points in mixed beds.

Uses and Benefits of Astelia Species

In addition to their garden appeal, many Astelia species are valued for their ecological and cultural significance. Native plantings of astelia attract native birds and insects, contributing to local biodiversity. Historically, species like Astelia banksii (Wharawhara) have been used for weaving and as rongoā (traditional Māori medicinal plants).

Whether you are designing a lush subtropical retreat or seeking tough, wind-resistant foliage for exposed sites, exploring different Astelia species can help you achieve a versatile, resilient, and distinctly local planting palette.

Discover the Best Astelia Species for Your Garden

Ready to add the striking texture of Astelia to your landscape? Explore our selection of distinctive plants, including Astelia banksii (Wharawhara), Astelia fragrans (Bush Flax), Astelia nervosa (Mountain Astelia), Astelia solandri (Perching Lily), and Astelia 'Silver Shadow'. With so many beautiful Astelia species to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect variety for your unique garden space.


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