New Zealand Flax
Phormium tenax 'Lineata'
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
60 inches
Width
48 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
8, 9
Water
Low to moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
New Zealand
Toxicity
Mildly toxic if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Phormium tenax 'Lineata' is a striking perennial with long, sword-shaped leaves featuring distinctive linear variegation, forming dense clumps that add architectural interest to gardens. It produces tall flower spikes with tubular blossoms. This cultivar is valued for its unique variegated foliage, which provides a bold, linear pattern that enhances modern and tropical garden designs.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or divide rhizomes in spring or early summer.
- Plant in well-draining soil with partial to full sun exposure.
- Water regularly until established, then drought tolerant.
- Apply balanced fertilizer in early spring for best growth.
- Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Prune dead or damaged leaves in early spring to maintain appearance.
Pro Tip
Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
- Prune to shape and remove dead leaves
- Apply fertilizer in spring for vigorous growth
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years to maintain health
Don't
- Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
- Don’t plant in waterlogged soil
- Refrain from heavy fertilization late in the season
- Do not prune in late fall or winter
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
New Zealand Flax questions
What zones can New Zealand Flax grow in?
New Zealand Flax is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is New Zealand Flax deer resistant?
Yes — New Zealand Flax is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does New Zealand Flax bloom?
New Zealand Flax typically blooms in summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does New Zealand Flax need full sun?
New Zealand Flax does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is New Zealand Flax drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), New Zealand Flax handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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Grow New Zealand Flax with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
