PHORMIUM
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PHORMIUM
Commonly known as New Zealand flax
These architectural plants can be grown in tubs and make excellent features on the patio. They prefer a hot dry site and are perfectly hardy if sheltered from strong winds. In colder areas they need to be given some mulch or other protection around the base of the plant in winter.
Genus of two species of evergreen perennials P. cookianum (Mountain flax) and P. tenax (New Zealand flax).
They are found in scrub and swamps and on hillsides and riverbanks in areas ranging from coasts to mountains in New Zealand.
The flax label originates from the Cook expedition where the native popuation wore garments similar to linens (made from flax).
An industry was proposed for the Scillies in the late 1800s, probably for rope, but nothing came of it. Naturalised plants of P. tenax can be found all over the Isles.
Full Plant Details - Sun/Soil & other attributes
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Architectural interest
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Good to know
All-year-round colour and flower spikes in summer -
Pests & Diseases
Mealybugs. -
Place of origin
Garden origin -
Resistant to honey fungusThese plants have little or few problems with honey fungus.
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Evergreen
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BorderSuitable for a shrub border
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Coastal / windsweptIdeal for a coastal garden
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Frost hardy (down to -5)
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Gold/yellow
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Height
1.5m (5ft) -
Spread
60cm (24in)
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Medium shrubTypically grow to around 4-6 feet in heightClump-forming perennial.
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Half hardy - unheated greenhouse / mild winter
Hardy in coastal and relatively mild parts of the UK except in severe winters and a risk from sudden (early) frosts. May be hardy elsewhere with wall shelter or good micro-climate. Likely to be damaged or killed in cold winters. Plant can withstand temperatures down to -5°C (23°F) -
Autumn Seasonal Interest
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Spring Seasonal Interest
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Summer Seasonal Interest
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Winter Seasonal Interest
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Fertile moist well-drained soil
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Full sun
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Partial shade
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Rabbit Resistant
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Mature Size1.5m (5ft)
60cm (24in)
View Planting Tips and Care Advice
Phormiums - Care Guide
View Planting Combinations
