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Plant Profiles / New Zealand flax
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
New Zealand flax
Phormium tenax hybrids · Flax
Bold fans of strappy leaves in bronze, pink, yellow and green. Instant structure.
Full sunLight
WeeklyWater
Very easyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Full sun
ShadeFull sun
Sun.
Water
Weekly
DryWet
Moderate.
Humidity
Adaptable
LowHigh
Adaptable.
Temperature
-8–38°C (18–100°F)
CoolWarm
Hardy.
Growth
Moderate
SlowFast
60 cm–2 m.
Soil
Adaptable
LeanRich
Potting mix.
Fertiliser
Spring
RarelyOften
Light.
Pet safety
Non-toxic
SafeToxic
Safe.
About this plant
From New Zealand. Tough in wind, salt and heat.
Best spots
Coastal balconies and modern pots.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Phormium tenax hybrids |
| Family | Asphodelaceae |
| Origin | New Zealand |
| Plant type | Perennial |
| Mature size | 60 cm–2 m |
| Growth rate | Moderate |
| Foliage | Coloured straps |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic |
| Propagation | Division |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Tidy
Divide
TidyDivide
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Faded | Shade. |
| Mealybugs | Alcohol. |
| Rot | Wet. |
| Brown | Old leaves. |
| Crowded | Divide. |
Common questions
Coastal?
Yes.
Pets?
Safe.
Pots?
Yes.
Divide?
Yes.
