phormium licorice and lime

Outstanding Colour and Growth Habit

Phormium 'Licorice and Lime' forms neat clumps of sword-like leaves that stand upright and reach about 60–80cm in height and spread. The luminous lime-green margins set off the rich licorice-coloured centres, delivering maximum impact in modern landscaping schemes. This unique colour combination lends Phormium 'Licorice and Lime' an eye-catching edge, whether planted as a specimen, grouped in mass planting, or used to highlight pathways and borders.

If you're seeking more vibrant or compact phormiums, explore plants such as Phormium 'Evening Glow', Phormium 'Green Dwarf', or Phormium 'Emerald Gem'.

Plant Uses and Ideal Positions

Versatility is a key feature of Phormium 'Licorice and Lime'. Its robust nature makes it perfect for tough sites, wind-prone gardens, and exposed coastal conditions. The dramatic foliage works beautifully in modern courtyards, subtropical gardens, containers, and mass plantings. Use it as a focal point on patios, frame driveways, or pair with other contrasting flaxes like Phormium 'Jester' or the graceful Phormium 'Surfer' for varied texture and colour.

For biodiverse and low-maintenance gardens, mix Phormium 'Licorice and Lime' with other natives such as Libertia 'Goldfinger' or the robust Phormium colensoi.

Growing and Care Tips

Phormium 'Licorice and Lime' thrives in full sun to partial shade and adapts to most soil types, provided they’re well-drained. Once established, it tolerates dry conditions but benefits from occasional watering during hot, dry periods. Remove old or damaged leaves at the base to maintain a tidy appearance. These flaxes resist most pests and diseases, making them a resilient choice for busy gardeners.

Planning a full flax display? Complement Phormium 'Licorice and Lime' with the upright style of Phormium 'Veneer', the luminous Phormium 'Yellow Wave', or the blue-toned Dianella 'Margaret Pringle' for year-round structure and colour.

Bring a Touch of Drama to Your Garden

If you're looking for drought-tolerant, evergreen structure with dramatic colour, Phormium 'Licorice and Lime' deserves a place in your planting plan. Discover our selection of New Zealand flaxes, and pair with companion phormiums for a captivating garden design that thrives in Kiwi conditions year-round.