Wharariki
Phormium cookianum
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Pl. 7DAE — Phormium cookianum
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IOverview
Overview
Wharariki, scientifically known as Phormium cookianum, is a perennial plant native to the North and South Islands of New Zealand. It thrives in moist, wet conditions and prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils. This hardy plant can grow up to 1.2 meters tall and requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. Wharariki is known for its edible nectar, which makes it a valuable resource in certain culinary applications. Its distinctive features include striking, sword-like leaves that add ornamental value to gardens while also serving as an important food source.
Quick answers
What is Wharariki?
Wharariki, scientifically known as Phormium cookianum, is a perennial plant native to the North and South Islands of New Zealand. It thrives in moist, wet conditions and prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils. This hardy plant can grow up to 1.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Wharariki thrives in full sun to partial shade and requires moist to wet soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 7-10 and grows as a perennial, reaching up to 1.2 meters in height. For propagation, use division or seeds. Harvest the nectar from its flowers for culinary uses.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist, Wet
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
7-10
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
1.2 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Wharariki for the first time
8steps
Wharariki is a hardy, low-maintenance plant that's perfect for beginners.
- 1
What you'll need
A Wharariki plant or seeds, a garden fork, compost, and mulch.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure your soil is well-draining with plenty of organic matter. For containers, use a mix of light, medium, or heavy soil types.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants from the nursery or sow seeds directly in the garden after the last frost.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist. Avoid overwatering, as Wharariki prefers well-draining conditions.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun or partial shade and water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Prune dead leaves and flowers to maintain appearance.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune old foliage in spring to encourage new growth and maintain a tidy look.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in poorly draining soil, and not providing enough sunlight are common issues beginners should avoid.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Nectar
Edible uses: Coffee, Gum
Other uses:AdhesiveFiberGum
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
2 native · 1 introduced
Distribution
2 native · 1 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 2 native· 1 introduced
Europe1 region
introduced (1)United Kingdom
Broader regions
native:New Zealand South, New Zealand North
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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- Citation
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 7daed501-5113-400e-8234-996395651665
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