Phormium tenax

New Zealand Flax

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Evergreen perennial native to New Zealand with stiff, strap-like leaves. Produces tall spikes of orange-red tubular flowers in summer.
yard Outdoor plants wb_sunny Half-shade / Sun pets Not pet-safe
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Plant Details

Common Name New Zealand Flax
Family Asphodelaceae
Genus Phormium
Species Tenax
Origin New Zealand
Blooming Racemes of orange-red tubular flowers in summer
Leaf Color Grey-green, blue-green, or dark red depending on cultivar
Sunlight Half-shade / Sun
Category Outdoor plants
Pet Friendly close No
yard

Care & Maintenance

terrain
Soil

Well-draining loam or sandy soil. Tolerates poor soils and salinity.

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Watering

Drought tolerant once established. Water regularly during establishment, reduce in winter to prevent root rot.

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Sunlight & Care

Full sun preferred for best color; tolerates partial shade in hot climates.

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Fertilization

Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring. Low feeding requirements.

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Pruning

Remove dead leaves at the base and trim spent flower spikes after blooming.

Pest Control Aphid Leafroller Scale Insect Thrip

These are the insects and pathogens that commonly interact with this plant, including pests, parasites, and organisms typically associated with its care.

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Seasonal Periods

local_florist Flowering Period 4 months
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
eco Leaf Persistence 12 months
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
thermostat

Growing Parameters

thermostat
Temperature
23° – 95°
Fahrenheit
Ideal ambient air temperature range for healthy growth
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Humidity
40% – 80%
% relative
Optimal relative air humidity the plant thrives in
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Light (LUX)
1000 – 40000
Lux
Ambient illuminance level at the plant's surface
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Light (PAR)
1200 – 3500
mmol/m²/s
Photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) intensity
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Soil Moisture
20% – 60%
% volumetric
Water content in the growing medium
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Soil EC
300 – 1500
mS/cm
Electrical conductivity (nutrient concentration in soil water)

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