Phormium Tenax

Phormium tenax, commonly known as New Zealand Flax or Harakeke, is one of New Zealand’s most iconic native plants, celebrated for its strong upright foliage, architectural form and exceptional versatility in the landscape. Naturally occurring throughout New Zealand, this striking evergreen forms large clumps of long sword-like leaves that create structure, movement and year-round interest in gardens.

Traditionally valued by Māori for weaving, rope making and practical use, Harakeke remains an important cultural and ecological species. Mature plants produce impressive tall flower spikes through summer carrying rich red to yellow nectar-filled blooms that attract tūī, bellbirds and beneficial pollinators.

Highly adaptable and extremely hardy, Phormium tenax thrives in coastal gardens, wet areas, dry landscapes and exposed sites. Its bold form makes it ideal for mass planting, screening, native gardens, shelter planting and modern landscape designs throughout New Zealand.