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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.

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

Astelia chathamica (Chatham Island Astelia)

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Astelia chathamica, commonly known as the Chatham Island Astelia or Kakaha, produces broad, erect, silver-green leaves. The leaves are held with a gentle arch as they grow to 1.5 m tall and the same width. Astelia chathamica is an ideal plant for coastal gardens, suitable for mass planting either on a bank or as a ground cover, or for adding texture and interest to a mixed planting. It will provide a striking display, whether grown individually or in clusters, and is both robust and easy to grow.

From $299.92

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Flaxes
Height: 1.50 m
Spread: 1.50 m
Flowering time: Spring
Tolerances: Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy, Wind
Garden uses: Living areas, Ponds, Pool areas
Garden styles: Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Mediterranean, Modern, Native, Riparian
Arctotis Mauve Delight purple flower.

Arctotis 'Mauve Delight' (African Daisy)

Arctotis 'Mauve Delight' is a vibrant and low growing perennial valued for its soft mauve daisy like flowers and attractive silver green foliage. Flowering from spring through autumn, it brings long lasting colour and texture to New Zealand gardens. This drought tolerant and sun loving plant thrives in warm, dry locations and poor soils. Perfect for borders, rock gardens, banks, and mass planting, it provides bold seasonal impact with minimal maintenance.

From $21.53

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Perennials
Height: 40 cm
Spread: 1.00 m
Flowering time: Spring, Summer, Winter
Tolerances: Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy
Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Living areas, Paths & Steps, Pool areas
Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Mediterranean, Modern
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Pittosporum ralphii olive-green foliage.
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Hoheria angustifolia green foliage with masses of white flowers.
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Sophora microphylla specimen tree covered in yellow flowers.
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Sophora longicarinata yellow flowers.
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Sophora longicarinata is a rare and beautiful NZ native tree belonging to the kowhai family. This evergreen to semi deciduous species is admired for...

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

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Bambusa oldhamii growing in a park.
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Hoheria populnea green foliage with white flowers.
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Pittosporum 'Limelight' variegated foliage.
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Acer griseum specimen tree in a park.
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Ribes rubrum red berries on a shrub.
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A large Dacrycarpus dacrydioides (Kahikatea) tree.
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Typha orientalis (Raupo) plants with brown seed heads.
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Phyllocladus trichomanoides lush green foliage.
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Astelia chathamica (Chatham Island Astelia)

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Acer, Agathis, Alnus, Arctotis, Astelia, Bambusa, Beilschmiedia, Dacrycarpus, Dianella, Griselinia, Hedycarya, Hoheria, Juncus, Laurelia, Leptospermum, Libertia, Metrosideros, Phyllocladus, Pittosporum, Prumnopitys, Ribes Sophora and Typha, or related Categories - Grass Seed, Currants, Flaxes, Grasses, Perennials, Evergreen Shrubs, Deciduous Trees Evergreen Trees and Maple Tree.

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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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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.

Illustration of plant leaves.
Gardeners love Chamaemelum nobile (Chamomile) and Dianella 'Little Jess', but there’s a growing buzz around plants like Rhaphidophora decursiva, Dianella Goddess, and Pieris 'Christmas Cheer'.
–The Plant Company

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