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Astelia banksii

5 from 1 customers

Wharawhara, Shore Astelia

Astelia banksii, commonly known as Wharawhara or Shore Astelia, is a striking New Zealand native plant celebrated for its silver-grey, strap-like leaves that arch gracefully. Forming dense clumps up to 1.2 metres in height and width, it brings texture and visual interest to gardens year-round. This evergreen perennial thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soils, making it ideal for coastal gardens, borders, containers, and mass plantings. In spring, Astelia banksii produces small, pale green flowers, followed by purple-black berries in autumn, which attract native birds. Its tolerance to wind, drought, and coastal conditions, along with low maintenance requirements, make it a versatile choice for various garden styles, including modern, native, and architectural designs.

Large Astelia banksii with cascading green leaves.
The average plant height is 15 cm
$29.73
The average plant height is 10 cm
$32.71
The average plant height is 15 cm
$156.30

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Suited to regions:All regions
Plant type:Flaxes
Height:1.20 m
Spread:1.20 m
Flowering time:
Tolerances:Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy, Wind
Garden uses:Banks, Containers, Living areas, Ponds, Pool areas
Garden styles:Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Mediterranean, Modern, Native, Riparian
Easy to grow?Yes
Maintenance requirementsLow
Growth rateMedium
Also known asWharawhara, Shore Astelia
Sku10008

How to grow Astelia banksii?

Astelia banksii is a striking, silver-green, native New Zealand plant valued for its architectural foliage and ability to thrive in tough conditions. To grow it successfully, choose a well-drained location with partial shade to full sun—though in hotter or more exposed areas, light shade helps protect the foliage from scorching. The soil should be rich in organic matter but not overly wet; raised beds or sloped areas work well to avoid root rot. Water regularly during dry spells, especially while the plant establishes, but avoid overwatering. Astelia banksii is wind-tolerant and moderately frost-hardy, making it suitable for coastal or exposed gardens. Remove dead leaves as needed, and apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Feeding with a slow-release fertiliser in spring will encourage healthy growth. It's ideal for mass planting, containers, or as a feature plant in modern landscapes.

Astelia banksii for sale

The Plant Company has the best Astelia banksii for sale in NZ. Our production nursery specialises in growing amazing plants and our logistics team pack them carefully for our customers. The pricing is competitive and the quality is exceptional. The seed is eco-sourced and then grown into amazing plants ready for their new homes. We all love producing this beautiful plant and hearing our customers thank us for providing them with healthy and vibrant plants. Let us look after your plant needs and impress you with both our products and service!

Astelia banksii care

Astelia banksii is a hardy and low-maintenance native plant ideal for New Zealand gardens, especially where striking foliage is desired. It grows best in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter, though it will tolerate poorer soils if drainage is adequate. Partial shade is ideal, particularly in warmer regions, to prevent leaf scorch, but it also performs well in full sun in coastal or cooler areas. When planting, it's important to keep the crown above the soil line and avoid waterlogging, as this species can be prone to root rot. Regular watering is needed during establishment, but once settled, Astelia banksii becomes relatively drought-tolerant. Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping it clear of the crown. Feeding in early spring with a slow-release fertiliser or compost encourages strong growth. While generally pest-free, removing old or damaged leaves periodically will keep the plant looking its best. It is tolerant of wind and moderately frost-hardy, making it suitable for a wide range of landscapes, including coastal and exposed gardens.

Questions and Answers

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Reviews

5 from 1 customers
Mike Howell - Auckland
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