Name: The Plant Company
Address: 284 Meeanee Road, Meeanee, Napier, 4112, New Zealand
Telephone: 0800 843 752
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growing flax plants

If you’ve ever admired the striking, sword-like foliage of New Zealand’s iconic flax, you’re not alone. Growing flax plants offers both beauty and versatility for gardeners of all skill levels. Flax, or Phormium, is renowned for its architectural appeal, vibrant colours, and resilience in a range of conditions. Whether you’re looking to create a lush coastal border, establish native habitat, or add texture to your garden, flax plants are an excellent choice. Their low maintenance and year-round interest make them a standout, especially for Kiwi gardens.

Phormium 'Green Dwarf'

Phormium 'Green Dwarf', also known as Dwarf Green Flax, is a compact, tidy New Zealand flax cultivar with lush, bright green, strap-like leaves. It forms a clump around 40–60 cm tall and wide, making it perfect for edging, borders, pots, or mass planting. Hardy and low-maintenance, it thrives in full sun to part shade and tolerates wind, coastal exposure, and dry conditions once established. Its neat form and vibrant colour suit both modern and native-style landscapes.

Buy Phormium 'Green Dwarf'

From $16.13

Suited to regions: All regions

Plant type: Flaxes

Height: 75 cm

Spread: 60 cm

Flowering time: Summer

Tolerances: Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy, Wet, Wind

Garden uses: Banks, Borders, Living areas, Parks, Paths & Steps, Ponds, Pool areas, Specimen

Garden styles: Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Mediterranean, Modern, Native, Riparian

Phormium tenax

Phormium tenax, commonly known as the NZ flax or Harakeke, is a flax plant that produces erect, green, sword-like leaves. Stems rise above the foliage in summer to bear twisted-looking flowers that result in black seed pods in autumn, and the nectar produced by the flowers attracts both birds and butterflies. Harakeke grows as a clump to about 2 m tall and the same wide, performing best when planted in full sun on a well-drained site. It is a popular landscape option that is also often used to contrast with other plant colours. Mass planting on a bank not only provides an outstanding display but is also excellent for helping to stabilise the soil.

Buy Phormium tenax

From $20.93

Suited to regions: All regions

Plant type: Flaxes

Height: 2.00 m

Spread: 2.00 m

Flowering time: Summer

Tolerances: Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy, Wet, Wind

Garden uses: Banks, Living areas, Parks, Ponds, Pool areas, Specimen

Garden styles: Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Mediterranean, Modern, Native, Riparian

Why Grow Flax Plants?

Flax plants are native to New Zealand and thrive in the country’s diverse climates. Known for their tolerance to salt spray, wind, and drought, Phormium varieties are perfectly suited to coastal and urban settings. Growing flax plants not only provides striking foliage, but also attracts native birds with their nectar-rich flowers. They offer erosion control, shelter, and are a staple in eco-friendly landscape designs.

Best Flax Varieties for Your Garden

Choosing the right flax variety is key when planning your garden. The classic Phormium tenax is a robust species, featuring tall, upright leaves and impressive flower spikes. For smaller spaces or container gardening, Phormium 'Green Dwarf' and Phormium 'Pepe' (Dwarf Flax) are perfect choices, offering compact growth without sacrificing the dramatic look. If you prefer softer, arching leaves, Phormium cookianum provides a more relaxed form and easily mixes into mixed plantings. For a touch of colour and contemporary flair, Phormium 'Velvet Underground' stands out with deep, velvety hues.

Tips for Successfully Growing Flax Plants

Flax plants love sunny positions but will also tolerate partial shade. When planting, ensure your soil is well-draining – heavy clay can hinder growth. Flax roots are tough, but they benefit from organic matter mixed into the soil. Water young plants regularly until established, then enjoy their drought-resistant nature. Mulching helps retain moisture and discourages weeds. For city gardens, flax is prized for minimal maintenance; simply remove old leaves each year to keep plants tidy.

Flax in Landscaping and Beyond

Growing flax plants is more than a gardening trend – it’s a sustainable choice with practical benefits. Flaxes are perfect for windbreaks, hedges, and enhancing biodiversity. Their striking form complements native plantings and modern designs alike. In Māori culture, flax has long been used for weaving and crafting, making it a plant with deep heritage and contemporary appeal.

Discover Your Next Flax Plant

If you’re ready to start growing flax plants or expand your collection, explore our curated selection of Phormium varieties. From tall and statuesque Phormium tenax to colourful Phormium 'Velvet Underground', there’s a flax for every garden and every gardener. Plant a piece of New Zealand’s landscape and enjoy the lasting benefits of flax in your outdoor space.

Contact us

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.