phormium like plants
If you're searching for phormium like plants to bring structure, colour, and drama to your garden, you're in the right place. Phormiums, also known as New Zealand flaxes, are renowned for their striking architectural form and resilience, but many gardeners want to explore similar alternatives or companion plants that offer comparable effect. This guide introduces you to a range of phormium like plants and explores their attributes, growing tips, and how to make the best use of these bold, easy-care plants in your New Zealand landscape.
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.
From $14.78
Phormium 'Stripy Mist'
Phormium Stripy Mist is a popular NZ native dwarf flax that features striking green leaves with a chocolate brown centre. It grows as a very tidy clump to about 40 cm tall and the same wide. Phormium Stripy Mist is commonly added to mixed and border plantings, included in coastal gardens, planted around outdoor living areas, or maintained in a container.
From $20.93
