Plants
Flaxes
Astelia chathamica

Astelia chathamica

Name: Astelia chathamica
Brand: The Plant Company
SKU: 10009j
Price: 152.48 NZD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5.0 (2 reviews)

5

Silver Spear Astelia, Chatham Island Astelia, Kakaha

Astelia chathamica, commonly known as the Silver Spear Astelia, Chatham Island Astelia, or Kakaha, produces broad and erect, silver-green leaves. The leaves are held with a gentle arch as it grows to 1.5 m tall and the same wide. Astelia chathamica is an ideal plant for coastal gardens, mass planting either on a bank or as a groundcover, or for adding texture and interest to a mixed planting. It will provide a striking display whether grown individually or in clusters, and is both robust and easy to grow.

Suited to regions:	All regions
Plant type:	Flaxes
Height:	1.50 m
Spread:	1.50 m
Flowering time:	Spring
Tolerances:	Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy, Wind
Garden uses:	Living areas, Ponds, Pool areas
Garden styles:	Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Mediterranean, Modern, Native, Riparian
Easy to grow?	Yes
Maintenance requirements	Low
Growth rate	Medium
Also known as	Silver Spear Astelia, Chatham Island Astelia, Kakaha

How to grow Astelia chathamica?

Astelia chathamica, commonly known as Silver Spear, is a bold, clump-forming native plant prized for its shimmering silver foliage and striking form. To grow it successfully, choose a location with free-draining soil and partial shade to full sun. It prefers moist but not waterlogged soil, so incorporating compost or pumice at planting time helps improve drainage and moisture retention. Water regularly while the plant is establishing, then reduce frequency as it becomes more drought-tolerant. Mulch around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds but avoid piling it directly against the crown to prevent rot. Apply a slow-release fertiliser in spring to encourage healthy growth. Minimal maintenance is required—simply remove dead or damaged leaves to keep the plant looking tidy. Astelia chathamica is tolerant of wind and light frost, making it ideal for coastal gardens, containers, and modern landscapes. It’s an excellent specimen plant or mass planting option for bold texture and year-round interest.

Astelia chathamica for sale

The Plant Company has the best Astelia chathamica 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 chathamica care

Astelia chathamica, or Silver Spear, is a striking New Zealand native known for its broad, silver-green leaves and bold, clumping form. It thrives in well-drained soil and prefers partial shade to full sun. In coastal regions, it tolerates full sun well and handles wind exposure with ease. The soil should be rich in organic matter but free-draining, as Astelia dislikes sitting in waterlogged conditions. When planting, ensure the crown sits just above soil level to reduce the risk of rot. Water regularly while the plant is establishing, then ease off as it becomes more drought-tolerant. A yearly application of slow-release fertiliser in spring will encourage healthy growth and strong foliage colour. Apply mulch around the base to retain soil moisture and keep weeds down, but avoid covering the crown. Astelia chathamica is generally low-maintenance, with few pests or diseases—just remove any damaged or dead leaves as needed. It is moderately frost-hardy and ideal for modern gardens, coastal landscapes, and large containers where its sculptural form can shine.