New Zealand Flax (Phormium): Dramatic Foliage for Gardens and Containers

New Zealand flax (Phormium) forms striking fanlike clumps of swordlike, vertical leaves that add architectural drama to any landscape. Plants range from towering 6-foot specimens to compact 1-foot cultivars like 'Jack Spratt', with many in the 2- to 4-foot range. Foliage colors include green, bronze, bronzy red, and variegated stripes of cream, yellow, and red.

Growing Conditions

• Zones: 14–28
• Exposure: Full sun to light shade
• Water: Regular to little

Species and Cultivars

P. tenax has stiff, upright foliage; P. cookianum has laxer leaves that bend at the tips. Hybrids between these species offer a vast array of colors and forms. Stiffer-leaved types tolerate full sun; those with bending tips prefer light afternoon shade in hot-summer areas. All thrive in ordinary garden soil with good drainage.

Landscape Uses

New Zealand flax contrasts beautifully with a wide variety of plants. It makes striking accents around swimming pools and tolerates salt air and ocean spray, making it ideal for coastal gardens.