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rare perennial plants nz

If you’re searching for rare perennial plants in NZ to transform your garden into a living treasure trove, you’re in the right place. Unique perennials bring distinctive colour, unusual blooms, and fascinating foliage to New Zealand gardens, rewarding plant lovers year after year. These plants offer exceptional garden performance while giving you the satisfaction of growing something truly special. Whether you’re a dedicated collector or a gardener eager to try something new, rare perennial plants thrive right here in New Zealand’s varied climates.

acer-ukigumo--1

Acer palmatum 'Ukigumo'

5 from 2 customers

Acer palmatum 'Ukigumo' is a rare and highly ornamental Japanese Maple treasured for its striking white and pink variegated foliage. Often called the Floating Cloud Maple, its soft green leaves are beautifully marbled with creamy white and blush tones in spring and summer. Perfect for New Zealand gardens, this deciduous tree brings light, contrast, and elegance to sheltered spaces while remaining compact and refined.

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 3.00 m
Spread: 3.00 m
Garden uses: Containers, Living areas, Parks, Specimen
Garden styles: Alpine, Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern
prunus-ukon-3

Prunus Ukon

Prunus 'Ukon' is a rare and elegant flowering cherry tree admired for its unusual pale yellow green blossoms during spring. This deciduous ornamental tree creates a distinctive display that stands apart from traditional pink flowering cherries, adding sophistication and uniqueness to New Zealand gardens. The semi double flowers appear in abundance against fresh green foliage and gradually develop subtle pink tones as they age. Prunus 'Ukon' is ideal for feature planting, avenue planting, and ornamental landscapes where refined beauty and seasonal colour are desired. Its graceful form and uncommon blooms make it a highly desirable ornamental tree.

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 5.00 m
Spread: 5.00 m
Flowering time: Spring
Tolerances: Hardy
Garden uses: Parks, Specimen
Garden styles: Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern
Lush green foliage on Tecomanthe speciosa.
Tecomanthe speciosa

Tecomanthe speciosa, commonly known as the Three Kings Climber, is a NZ native vine grown for its foliage and flowers. It features large, glossy...

From$44.09
A Philodendron 'Birkin' with lovely variegated foliage growing as an indoor plant.
Philodendron 'Birkin'

Philodendron 'Birkin' is a striking indoor plant characterised by its deep green leaves, adorned with creamy white pinstripes. It grows upright in a...

From$44.09
Libertia grandiflora plant with elegant white flowers and lush, dark green foliage.
Libertia grandiflora (NZ Iris)

Libertia grandiflora, commonly known as NZ Iris, is a hardy New Zealand native perennial admired for its elegant white flowers and sword like green...

From$16.22
sorbus-scarlet-king-
Sorbus aucuparia Scarlet King (Rowan Tree NZ)

Sorbus aucuparia Scarlet King is a variety of the commonly known, Mountain Ash, and is a small-sized, deciduous with impressive characteristics...

From$387.55
Cissus rhombifolia trailling over the sides of a planter with lush foliage.
Cissus rhombifolia (Grape Ivy)

Cissus rhombifolia, commonly known as the Grape Ivy plant, is an evergreen perennial grown for its colourful and trailing foliage. Hanging stems host...

From$31.67
Kniphofia Dwarf Scarlet plant with red flowers.
Kniphofia 'Dwarf Scarlet' (Hot Poker Plant)

Kniphofia 'Dwarf Scarlet' is a compact perennial known for its vibrant red flower spikes that rise above neat grassy foliage. This eye catching plant...

From$20.63
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Portulaca Pazzaz Sunset (Moss Rose Plant)

Portulaca Pazazz Sunset, commonly known as the Moss Rose plant, is a low-growing perennial with fabulous flowers. Bright orange and yellow flowers...

From$26.15
Acanthus mollis perennial with purple-white flowers above lush, green foliage.
Acanthus mollis (Bears Breeches)

Acanthus mollis, known as Bears Breeches or Oyster Plant, is a bold and striking perennial that adds a touch of elegance to NZ gardens. It features...

From$27.53
Sedum rubrotinctum (Jelly Bean Plant) bright red foliage.
Sedum rubrotinctum (Jelly Bean Plant)

Sedum rubrotinctum, commonly known as Jelly Bean Plant or Pork and Beans Plant, is a compact, low-growing succulent reaching 15–20 cm tall and...

From$21.39
White flowers on a Cistus 'Snowmound' plant with green foliage.
Cistus 'Snowmound' (White Rock Rose Plant)

Cistus ‘Snowmound’ is a compact evergreen shrub that produces a breathtaking display of pure white flowers with golden-yellow centres from late...

From$24.77
Chlorophytum comosum variegatum plants growing in pots on a shelf.
Chlorophytum comosum variegatum (Spider Plant)

Chlorophytum comosum Variegatum, commonly known as the Spider Plant, is a tender, herbaceous perennial grown for its lush and variegated foliage. It...

From$20.01
bergenia-cordifolia-3
Bergenia cordifolia (Pig Squeak Plant)

Bergenia cordifolia is a hardy evergreen perennial admired for its large glossy leaves and clusters of pink flowers in late winter and spring. This...

From$22.01
aechmea-fasciata-
Aechmea fasciata (Urn Plant)

Aechmea fasciata is a colourful Bromeliad that features thick and leathery leaves that are striped with silver and dark green. They are borne as a...

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Carex 'Everlime' plants for sale at The Plant Company nursery.
Carex 'Everlime' (Lime Grass Plant)

Carex ‘Everlime’ (Japanese Sedge) is a popular evergreen sedge valued for its graceful arching green foliage edged with bright lime cream margins...

From$26.91
helichrysum-petiolare--3
Helichrysum petiolare (Licorice Plant)

Helichrysum petiolare, commonly known as the Licorice plant, is a popular, evergreen shrub that is often used as a groundcover. It produces long...

From$24.77
helleborus-english-thoroughbred-
Helleborus English Thoroughbred Series (Winter Rose)

Helleborus 'English Thoroughbred' is a graceful winter-flowering perennial that features soft pink blooms with subtle green undertones. This variety...

From$24.77
A Spearmint plant with lush, green leaves.
Mint Plant

Mint Plant (Spearmint) is a popular herb grown for its fresh fragrant leaves and versatile use in cooking drinks and home remedies. Well suited to...

From$16.49
chlorophytum-curly--2
Chlorophytum Curly (Curly Spider Plant)

Chlorophytum Curly, commonly known as the Curly Spider Plant or Airplane plant, is a tender, herbaceous perennial grown for its lush, variegated, and...

From$22.01
Stromanthe triostar plant.
Stromanthe Triostar (Stromanthe Plant)

Stromanthe Triostar is a popular indoor plant owing to its lush and colourful foliage. It features elegant, dark green, pink, and cream-coloured...

From$33.05
strelitzia-nicolai-
Strelitzia nicolai (White Bird Of Paradise Plant)

Strelitzia nicolai (Giant White Bird Of Paradise) is a bold, architectural plant known for its large banana like leaves and striking white and blue...

From$44.09
Leonotis leonurus shrub with masses of orange flowers.
Leonotis leonurus (Lions Tail Plant)

Leonotis leonurus, commonly known as the Lions Tail Plant, is a shrub grown for its interesting flowers and foliage. Its unusualness comes from...

From$27.53
A large Monstera deliciosa (Swiss Cheese Plant) in a garden with lush, green leaves.
Monstera deliciosa (Swiss Cheese Plant)

Monstera deliciosa, also known as the Swiss Cheese or Fruit Salad Plant, is a popular indoor tropical plant loved for its striking, holey leaves and...

From$44.09
A strong and studry planting spade.
Ace1 Planting Spade

The Ace 1 planting spade is a must for any gardener. This spade is designed so it can penetrate the ground easily without jarring the wrists in the...

From$225.86
sansevieria-hahnii-
Sansevieria Hahnii (Bird's Nest Snake Plant)

Sansevieria Hahnii, commonly known as the Dwarf Snake Plant or Serpent Plant, is a very popular indoor plant. It features upright and fleshy leaves...

From$38.57
half-litre-plant-pots-
0.51 Litre Thermoformed Plant Pots

These lightweight pots are a cost-effective means for growing on plants. They feature a strong and broad rim, have been UV stabilised for NZ...

From$23.04
plant-pots-
2.5 Litre Thermoformed Plant Pots

These lightweight pots are a cost-effective means for growing on plants. They feature a strong and broad rim, have been UV stabilised for NZ...

From$37.44
15-litre-plant-pots-
1.5 Litre Thermoformed Plant Pots

These lightweight pots are a cost effective means for growing on plants. They feature a strong and broad rim, have been UV stabilised for NZ...

From$27.36
3-litre-plant-pots-
3.5 Litre Thermoformed Plant Pots

These lightweight pots are a cost-effective means for growing on plants. They feature a strong and broad rim, have been UV stabilised for NZ...

From$48.96
10-litre-plant-pots-
10 Litre Thermoformed Plant Pots

These lightweight pots are a cost effective means for growing on plants. They feature a strong and broad rim, have been UV stabilised for NZ...

From$5.76
5-litre-plant-pots-
5 Litre Thermoformed Plant Pots

These lightweight pots are a cost-effective means for growing on plants. They feature a strong and broad rim, have been UV stabilised for NZ...

From$79.20
Acer palmatum 'Ukigumo'

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Acanthus, Acer, Aechmea, Bergenia, Carex, Chlorophytum, Cissus, Cistus, Helichrysum, Helleborus, Kniphofia, Leonotis, Libertia, Mint, Monstera, Philodendron, Portulaca, Prunus, Sansevieria, Sedum, Sorbus, Strelitzia Stromanthe and Tecomanthe, or related Categories - Plant pots, Spades, Evergreen Climbers, Flaxes, Grasses, Groundcover Plants, Indoor Plants, Perennials, Evergreen Shrubs, Succulents, Deciduous Trees Flowering Cherry Tree and Maple Tree.

Search rare perennial plants nz

Why Choose Rare Perennial Plants in NZ Gardens?

Selecting rare perennial plants NZ-wide is an inspired choice for gardeners seeking more than ordinary bedding plants. These exceptional perennials often feature eye-catching flowers, unique foliage patterns, or intriguing growth habits, making them beautiful conversation starters. Many rare perennials are also low-maintenance once established, requiring less effort each season as they return reliably with renewed vigour.

Incorporating rare perennials not only adds year-round interest and biodiversity but can also benefit local pollinators and create dynamic plant combinations. Gardeners across New Zealand are rediscovering the value of sourcing and growing rare perennial plants NZ offers to design gardens that stand out and support local ecosystems.

Top Picks for Rare Perennial Plants NZ

Exploring rare perennial plants in NZ uncovers a range of standout species, from unsung garden heroes to sought-after collector’s items. Here are some unique options you’ll love adding to your landscape:

Expanding your rare perennial collection could also mean integrating unusual trees and foliage plants. Consider layering in Sorbus aucuparia Scarlet King (Rowan Tree NZ) for striking clusters of red berries, or experiment with the sculptural striping of Philodendron 'Birkin' in a container for patio or indoor flair.

Growing and Caring for Rare Perennial Plants NZ

Caring for rare perennial plants NZ gardeners admire doesn’t have to be daunting. Start by matching each plant’s needs—light, drainage, and soil type—to a compatible part of your garden. Most perennials appreciate regular watering as they establish and benefit from an annual layer of mulch to retain moisture and enrich soil health. Keep an eye on any specific needs, such as winter protection or light pruning, especially for rarer species that may come from different climates.

Discover Rare Perennial Plants NZ for a Remarkable Garden

Sourcing and growing rare perennial plants NZ is the key to a vibrant, ever-changing landscape layered with unique textures, colours, and forms. Whether you’re seeking something unusual for a cottage border, a native showpiece, or a bold architectural accent, these perennials promise seasons of enjoyment and discovery. Explore our curated range and start building your own collection today with distinctive choices like Geranium Stephanie (Perennial Geranium Plants), Libertia grandiflora (NZ Iris), and Kniphofia 'Dwarf Scarlet' (Hot Poker Plant).


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.

–The Plant Company

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