Mountain flax Phormium colensoi is a standout native plant in New Zealand gardens, prized for its elegant foliage, adaptability, and cultural significance. This iconic NZ flax, called Wharariki in Māori, thrives in a range of landscapes from alpine slopes to coastal sand dunes. Its tough, arching green leaves and compact form make it a versatile choice for both residential and commercial gardens where you want a low-maintenance, sculptural accent. If you’re searching for plants that deliver year-round visual appeal and resilience, mountain flax Phormium colensoi ticks all the boxes.
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 $17.48

Phormium 'Emerald Gem' is a dwarf variety of Mountain Flax or Wharariki. It produces emerald-green leaves and grows to 60 cm tall and 70 cm wide in full sun on a well-drained site. This dwarf flax is often added to mixed plantings and borders, used in coastal gardens, planted to accentuate water features such as ponds and streams, or grown around pool and barbecue areas.
From $16.13
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