phormium species

What are Phormium species?

Phormium species are a genus of perennial plants native to New Zealand and Norfolk Island. The two main wild species, Phormium tenax (harakeke) and Phormium colensoi (wharariki), are renowned for their tough, strap-shaped leaves and dramatic flower spikes. Thanks to careful cultivation and hybridising, gardeners can now enjoy an array of phormium cultivars offering unique combinations of colour, texture, and leaf form. These species and their cultivars are commonly used in New Zealand gardens for their salt and wind tolerance, making them perfect for exposed areas or coastal landscapes.

Popular Phormium species and Cultivars

With so many options to choose from, which phormium species or cultivars should you add to your garden? Here are a few to inspire your planting designs:

• Phormium 'Merlot' is well-loved for its rich burgundy-red foliage. Its upright form and deep tones can help create contrast alongside other green or silver-leafed plants.
• Phormium 'Maori Chief' brings vibrant pink and green variegation, making it a focal point even in the smallest of beds.
• Phormium 'Sundowner' features arching leaves with sunset-pink centres and olive green margins, and it thrives as a dramatic statement in pots or borders.
• Phormium 'Sunset Dreams' showcases coral, orange, and red shades, offering year-round interest and making it ideal for foreground planting.
• For deep shades, Phormium 'Shiraz' adds a wonderful wine-coloured touch to modern and native-inspired landscapes.

How to Grow Phormium species

Phormium species are celebrated for their low-maintenance nature and adaptability. They perform best in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Once established, many phormiums are drought tolerant and require little attention outside of removing older leaves and the occasional tidy-up. Their ability to handle wind, coastal salt spray, and even temporary waterlogging makes them a top choice for challenging spots.

Using Phormium species in Your Garden

Phormium species are a landscaper’s dream. Use them as striking central features, structural accents in subtropical designs, or rugged ground covers for erosion control. They also make excellent container plants, and their vibrant foliage brings year-round colour to porches and patios. Mix different phormium cultivars to create a dynamic tapestry of leaf colours and forms, or pair them with grasses, hebes, or native shrubs for a true New Zealand vibe.

Shop Phormium species with Us

Browse our extensive selection—including Phormium 'Merlot', Phormium 'Maori Chief', Phormium 'Sundowner', Phormium 'Sunset Dreams', and Phormium 'Shiraz'—to discover the right phormium species for your outdoor space. Whether you’re planning a coastal sanctuary or a modern garden, phormiums are sure to bring lasting structure and vibrant colour to your landscape.