Spiky perennial plants sold as Phormium are available in variegated or self colours but all have striking sword shaped leaves. Phormium Tenax is the larger more commonly available variety but there are now approaching 100 varieties to choose from.

Growing Phormium

• Phormiums are best growing in a sunny position although they will tolerate a fair amount of shade and like a stream side position.
• Phormium have tough leaves that are resistant to desiccation so in the garden they rarely need any extra watering.
• Varieties with upright leaves, such as ‘Sundowner’ and ‘Dusky Chief’ are reputed to be suitable for growing indoors
• P. cookianum varieties are less hardy but with some bracken leaves for winter protection they should be OK. Try Black Adder or Maori Maiden.
• Fernwood Nursery has a national Collection of over 70 varieties