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Phormium colensoi

Phormium colensoi

Phormium colensoi, commonly known as Mountain Flax or Wharariki, is synonymous with Phormium cookianum. It produces long and gently arching, sword-like, green leaves. This NZ native flax typically grows to 1.5 m tall and the same wide with a tidy and compact habit. Phormium colensoi makes a fantastic addition to mixed and border plantings, and is commonly planted around water features, added to coastal gardens, or mass planted on a bank.

Phormium colensoi plant.

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Suited to regions:All regions
Plant type:Flax and Flax like
Height:1.50 m
Spread:1.50 m
Flowering time:Summer
Tolerances:Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy, Wet, Wind
Garden uses:Banks, Living areas, Ponds
Garden styles:Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Modern, Native, Riparian
Easy to grow?Yes
Maintenance requirementsLow
Growth rateMedium
Also known asPhormium colensoi

Phormium colensoi Details

Phormium colensoi, commonly known as Mountain Flax or Wharariki, is synonymous with Phormium cookianum (i.e., they are the same plant but with different names). It produces long and gently arching, sword-like, green leaves. Tall stems rise above the foliage to bear dull pink or yellow flowers in summer which are great for attracting birds. This NZ native flax typically grows to 1.5 m tall and the same wide with a tidy and compact habit. Mountain Flax grows best and produces the most intense leaf colourings when planted in full sun on a well-drained site. It will tolerate frost, moderate shade, coastal conditions, wind, poor soils, and cool climates. Phormium colensoi makes a fantastic addition to mixed and border plantings, and is commonly planted around water features, or added to coastal gardens. Wharariki is also well suited for mass planting on a bank and in these situations provides an impressive display.

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