Phormium | New Zealand Flax

Phormium

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Plants of the phormium genus are originally from New Zealand, and this is why the common name for them is “New Zealand flax,” which was given to the plants by the first European settlers, who used the plants for their flax-like fibres. The long leaf fibres of the plant have made it an important part of New Zealand’s history, culture and local economy for many centuries. Phormium plants are characterised by their tough, bladelike leaves and rigid flower stalks, which produce tubular flowers. There is a huge variety of different sizes and colours, some of which are very startling – such as the dark purple foliage of the Phormium Black Adder, the crimson red of the Phormium Evening Glow, or the greens and yellows of the Phormium cookianum Cream Delight. Any of these are a spectacular addition to any garden. Phormiums grow well in most types of soil but prefer moist but well-drained soil. They are happiest in sunshine, although they are also tolerant of moderate shade.