Phormium tenax | New Zealand Flax
DESCRIPTION
Phormium tenax is a perennial plant native to New Zealand and Norfolk Island. It blooms from late spring to early summer, producing tall flowering stalks that can reach up to 12 feet in height. These stalks bear clusters of tubular flowers, typically in shades of red or reddish-orange, which attract nectar-seeking birds and insects.
Phormium tenax is primarily grown for its ornamental value, featuring long, strap-like leaves that can grow up to 10 feet in length. These leaves come in various colors, including green, bronze, purple, and variegated forms. It is a hardy plant, suitable for gardens in temperate and subtropical climates, and can be used as a bold focal point or as part of a mixed planting design.
DESCRIPTION
Phormium tenax is a perennial plant native to New Zealand and Norfolk Island. It blooms from late spring to early summer, producing tall flowering stalks that can reach up to 12 feet in height. These stalks bear clusters of tubular flowers, typically in shades of red or reddish-orange, which attract nectar-seeking birds and insects.
Phormium tenax is primarily grown for its ornamental value, featuring long, strap-like leaves that can grow up to 10 feet in length. These leaves come in various colors, including green, bronze, purple, and variegated forms. It is a hardy plant, suitable for gardens in temperate and subtropical climates, and can be used as a bold focal point or as part of a mixed planting design.
DESCRIPTION
Phormium tenax is a perennial plant native to New Zealand and Norfolk Island. It blooms from late spring to early summer, producing tall flowering stalks that can reach up to 12 feet in height. These stalks bear clusters of tubular flowers, typically in shades of red or reddish-orange, which attract nectar-seeking birds and insects.
Phormium tenax is primarily grown for its ornamental value, featuring long, strap-like leaves that can grow up to 10 feet in length. These leaves come in various colors, including green, bronze, purple, and variegated forms. It is a hardy plant, suitable for gardens in temperate and subtropical climates, and can be used as a bold focal point or as part of a mixed planting design.
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Family: Asphodelaceae
Height: Up to 10 feet
Width: Up to 6 feet
Flower color: Bright red or yellow
Foliage color: Varies by cultivar; can be green, bronze, purple, or variegated with stripes of red, pink, yellow, or cream
Bloom time: Late spring to early summer
Light requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Water requirements: Moderate; prefers well-drained soil
Maintenance: Low; remove dead or damaged leaves in spring
Growing zone: USDA zones 9–11
Wildlife attractors: Attracts nectar-seeking birdsThis plant can be seen at the Washington Park Arboretum.
