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Phormium 'Rainbow Chief'

Phormium 'Rainbow Chief' is a bold and colourful New Zealand native flax variety known for its striking arching leaves striped with tones of red, bronze, and green. This hardy evergreen forms a strong clump that delivers year round interest and architectural presence in the garden. Versatile, low maintenance, and resilient, 'Rainbow Chief' is perfect for modern landscapes, borders, and coastal plantings.

A Phormium 'Rainbow Chief' plant with colourful foliage.

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Suited to regions:All regions
Plant type:Flaxes
Height:1.30 m
Spread:1.30 m
Flowering time:Summer
Tolerances:Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy, Wet, Wind
Garden uses:Living areas, Parks, Ponds, Pool areas, Specimen
Garden styles:Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Native, Riparian
Easy to grow?Yes
Maintenance requirementsLow
Growth rateMedium
Also known as
Sku10199

How to grow Phormium 'Rainbow Chief' in NZ

Growing Phormium 'Rainbow Chief' in New Zealand is straightforward, as it thrives in full sun to partial shade and adapts to a wide range of soils. For best results, plant in well drained soil and water regularly during establishment. Once established, it is drought tolerant and very hardy. This variety also performs well in exposed and coastal conditions, making it a reliable choice for many NZ gardens.

Phormium 'Rainbow Chief' care tips

Caring for Phormium 'Rainbow Chief' is easy, as it requires little attention once established. Remove old or damaged leaves at the base to keep the clump looking fresh. A slow release fertiliser applied in spring will encourage strong growth and vibrant foliage colour. Spent flower stalks can be trimmed to maintain a neat appearance, ensuring the plant continues to look its best year round.

Phormium 'Rainbow Chief' size, spacing, and growth rate

Phormium 'Rainbow Chief' typically grows 1.5 to 2 metres tall and about 1.2 to 1.5 metres wide, forming a strong, upright clump. For borders or mass plantings, space plants 1 to 1.2 metres apart. The growth rate is moderate to fast, with plants establishing well within a few seasons and quickly becoming a feature in the landscape.

Landscaping uses for Phormium 'Rainbow Chief'

Phormium 'Rainbow Chief' is highly valued in landscaping for its vibrant foliage and robust nature. It is ideal for adding structure and colour to borders, mass plantings, or as a statement feature in modern gardens. Its bold striped leaves provide year round interest and contrast beautifully with other plants. It is also an excellent choice for coastal gardens and larger pots, offering versatility in both residential and commercial landscapes.

Why buy Phormium 'Rainbow Chief' from The Plant Company?

Purchasing Phormium 'Rainbow Chief' from The Plant Company ensures you receive premium quality plants grown in New Zealand conditions. As NZ’s most trusted plant nursery, we provide strong, healthy plants that establish quickly and thrive in your garden. Customers value our expert advice, careful packaging, and fast nationwide delivery. When you buy from The Plant Company, you can be confident your Phormium 'Rainbow Chief' will deliver lasting beauty and resilience in your outdoor spaces.

Questions and Answers

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