growing flax
Growing flax is an excellent way to add structure, colour, and movement to your New Zealand garden. Flax, or Phormium, is a remarkable native plant that thrives in a variety of conditions, from coastal plots to urban landscapes. With their architectural foliage and robust nature, flaxes are a favourite for gardeners looking to create low-maintenance but visually stunning spaces. Whether you’re establishing a new border or enhancing an existing garden bed, understanding how to grow and care for flax can transform your outdoor area with ease.
Phormium cookianum
Phormium cookianum, commonly known as Mountain Flax or Wharariki, is a graceful New Zealand native valued for its arching green leaves and tall flower spikes. It typically grows 1–1.5 metres tall and wide, making it ideal for borders, mass plantings, or coastal gardens. In summer, it produces yellow to orange tubular flowers that attract birds and pollinators. Hardy and tolerant of wind, salt, and poor soils, Wharariki thrives in full sun to part shade.
From $18.63
Phormium 'Dark Delight'
Phormium 'Dark Delight', also known as Dark Purple Flax, is a bold New Zealand native flax prized for its broad, upright leaves in deep purple to bronze shades. This striking ornamental variety brings drama, colour, and structure to gardens year round. Hardy and versatile, it thrives in a wide range of NZ conditions, from coastal sites to urban landscapes. Phormium 'Dark Delight' is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a low maintenance, architectural feature.
From $21.39
