New Zealand flax
Phormium tenax
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Pl. 0AD9 — Phormium tenax
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IOverview
Overview
New Zealand flax (Phormium tenax) is a robust subshrub or herb native to the Antipodean Islands and New Zealand's North and South Islands, as well as Norfolk Island. Known for its ornamental value, this plant thrives in moist, wet conditions with light to partial sun exposure. It can grow up to 3 meters tall and is hardy in zones 8-10. The edible parts include nectar, making it a unique choice for gardens where both beauty and utility are desired. Its distinctive feature lies in its ability to adapt to various soil types—light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay)—while still requiring moist conditions for optimal growth.
Quick answers
What is New Zealand flax?
New Zealand flax (Phormium tenax) is a robust subshrub or herb native to the Antipodean Islands and New Zealand's North and South Islands, as well as Norfolk Island. Known for its ornamental value, this plant thrives in moist, wet conditions with light to partial sun exposure.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
New Zealand flax thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist to wet soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is a perennial subshrub or herb that grows up to 3 meters tall. Propagate through division or seed sowing. This plant is hardy in zones 8-10 but may require protection from extreme cold. For best results, ensure the soil remains consistently moist and provide ample sunlight for optimal growth.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist, Wet
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
8-10
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Subshrub, Forb/herb
Mature size
3.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow New Zealand flax for the first time
8steps
Start with planting New Zealand flax in a sunny spot, and you'll have a low-maintenance addition to your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
New Zealand flax plants or seeds, potting mix, water.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the soil is warm and moist.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil. For containers, choose a pot at least 30 cm wide.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants from nursery pots into the garden or sow seeds in trays, then plant out after germination.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist. Protect from strong winds and full sun until established.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide water during dry spells. Prune dead leaves to maintain a neat appearance.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune old foliage in spring to encourage new growth and keep the plant tidy.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not protecting young plants from wind and sun.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Nectar
Edible uses: Coffee, Gum
Other uses:AdhesiveAlcoholWeaving materialDyeFiberGumtextilesTannin
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
5 native · 18 introduced
Distribution
5 native · 18 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 5 native· 18 introduced
Europe4 regions
introduced (4)IrelandPortugalSpainUnited Kingdom
Americas2 regions
introduced (2)GuatemalaUnited States
Broader regions
native:Norfolk Is., Chatham Is., New Zealand South, Antipodean Is., New Zealand North
introduced:Juan Fernández Is., Kermadec Is., Mexico Central, Mexico Gulf, Ascension, Mexico Southwest, St.Helena, Tasmania, Tristan da Cunha, Mexico Southeast, Falkland Is.
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 0ad9033c-2968-4306-b503-b691e6cf3e20
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