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red flax plant

The red flax plant, known for its striking red foliage and architectural form, is a stunning addition to any garden landscape. With its vibrant colors and resilience, the red flax (Phormium) can thrive in various conditions, making it a favorite among gardeners in New Zealand and beyond. This versatile plant works beautifully as a border, accent, or focal point in gardens ranging from coastal to inland settings.

Phormium 'Rainbow Red' red and purple striped foliage.

Phormium 'Rainbow Red'

Phormium 'Rainbow Red' is a vibrant New Zealand native flax admired for its bold, arching leaves in shades of bronze, red, and pink. This striking ornamental plant brings strong colour and structure to gardens year round. Hardy and versatile, it thrives in a wide range of NZ conditions, from coastal to urban settings.

From $249.95

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Flaxes
Height: 60 cm
Spread: 60 cm
Flowering time: Summer
Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy, Wet, Wind
Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Living areas, Parks, Paths & Steps, Patios, Ponds, Pool areas, Specimen
Garden styles: Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Native, Riparian
Phormium tenax plant in a garden with green foliage.

Phormium tenax

5 from 2 customers

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.

From $7.50

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Flaxes
Height: 2.00 m
Spread: 2.00 m
Flowering time: Summer
Tolerances: Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy, Wet, Wind
Garden uses: Banks, Living areas, Parks, Ponds, Pool areas, Specimen
Garden styles: Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Mediterranean, Modern, Native, Riparian
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Phormium 'Rainbow Red'

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Buddleia, Callistemon, and Carex, or related Categories - Flaxes, Grasses, and Deciduous Shrubs.

Search red flax plant

Characteristics and Care

Red flax plants are evergreen perennials that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall, with sword-like leaves that add drama and texture. When planted in well-drained soil and given full sun to partial shade, these resilient flora shine their brightest. They are drought-tolerant, requiring minimal watering once established, thus making them an excellent choice for low-maintenance gardens.

You can enhance your garden's aesthetic by pairing red flax with other vibrant plants such as the Phormium Red Dwarf or the classic Phormium tenax. These companions will complement the bold colors of the red flax while providing an interesting mix of textures and forms in your garden.

Best Uses of Red Flax

The versatility of the red flax plant allows for multiple uses in the garden. Its upright form makes it an ideal structural element, providing vertical interest in flower beds and borders. It also works well as a backdrop for lower-growing flowers, accentuating their colors and beauty. For instance, imagine how stunning it would be to plant red flax alongside flowering perennials like Heuchera Northern Exposure Red or Hemerocallis Red Wonder.

Another fantastic pairing is with other shrubs that embody the same deep red hues, such as Loropetalum Red Temple or Leptospermum Red Falls. Together, they create a color palette that livens up any garden space and draws the eye.

Combining with Other Plants

Incorporating the red flax plant into your garden design opens up many creative possibilities. Combine its tall, elegant leaves with compact shrubs like Escallonia Red Dream or Azalea Mrs Kint Red. This combination creates a layered effect, where the larger red flax frames the smaller shrubs, showcasing their features beautifully.

It's important to consider the growth patterns of your plants when designing your space. For a stunning textural contrast, integrate the red flax with the fine foliage of grasses like Carex comans Red or even mix in flowering plants like Pelargonium Redder Than Red to create an engaging tapestry of colors and forms.

Conclusion

The red flax plant is more than just a pretty face; it's a practical and dynamic component of any New Zealand garden. With its vibrant color and ease of care, it stands out as a plant that adds beauty and functionality to your outdoor space. Dive into the world of red flax and explore plant combinations that will elevate your garden design, transforming it into a vibrant oasis that reflects your personal style. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting, the red flax plant is a fantastic choice that you won’t regret adding to your garden palette.

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.

Illustration of plant leaves.
Sure, Chlorophytum comosum 'Variegatum' and Ficus 'Black Knight' are crowd-pleasers, but Magnolia denudata, Salvia 'Riverton Red', and Callistemon 'Better John' are quietly making a name for themselves.
–The Plant Company

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