types of flax plants
Flax plants are an iconic feature of New Zealand’s landscapes, prized for their dramatic foliage, minimal care needs, and versatility in the garden. There are several types of flax plants, with a diverse range of leaf colours, sizes, and forms. Whether you’re looking for an architectural statement, a hardy groundcover, or an attractive container plant, there’s a flax variety perfectly suited for your outdoor space. In this guide, we'll explore the most popular types of flax plants and how to use them in your garden design.
Phormium 'Green Dwarf'
Phormium 'Green Dwarf', also known as Dwarf Green Flax, is a compact, tidy New Zealand flax cultivar with lush, bright green, strap-like leaves. It forms a clump around 40–60 cm tall and wide, making it perfect for edging, borders, pots, or mass planting. Hardy and low-maintenance, it thrives in full sun to part shade and tolerates wind, coastal exposure, and dry conditions once established. Its neat form and vibrant colour suit both modern and native-style landscapes.
From $16.13
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
