Ornatec InternationalSpecies reference sheet ยท ornatecinternational.com
Phormium tenax
New Zealand Flax
The Phormium tenax, commonly known as New Zealand Flax or Harakeke, is a large clump-forming perennial from New Zealand, holding stiff, upright, sword-shaped leaves two to three metres tall in a fan from a woody base. Tall dark flower stems carry dull red tubular flowers well above the foliage in summer.
It gives a hard vertical architectural line at a scale between a shrub and a small tree, and it takes coastal exposure, wind and wet ground. It is used in architectural mass planting, coastal schemes, large planters and civic landscapes.
Specifications
- Height1.5 to 3 metres, with flower stems to 4 metres
- Width1.5 to 2.5 metres
- Native toNew Zealand, in coastal, lowland and wetland habitats
- FoliageStiff, upright, sword-shaped leaves in dark green to bronze, held in a fan from a woody base; evergreen
- Growth rateModerate
Conditions
- SoilAccepts a wide range including sandy, loamy, clay and seasonally wet soils; unusually tolerant of poor drainage
- LightFull sun to partial shade
- WaterModerate; drought-tolerant once established but fuller and better coloured with regular irrigation
- ClimateThrives in temperate, Mediterranean, subtropical and coastal regions; foliage can scorch under extreme desert exposure
Additional Features
- FormStrong upright fan of sword-shaped leaves, giving a hard architectural line without any pruning
- FlowersDull red tubular flowers on tall dark stems held well above the foliage in summer
- UsesArchitectural mass planting, coastal and waterfront schemes, large planters and podium beds, civic and campus landscapes
- SpacingPlant 1.5 to 2 metres apart for a continuous architectural mass
- Low MaintenanceRemove spent flower stems and old outer leaves; divide congested clumps every few years
- Pest ResistanceGenerally robust with few significant pest or disease problems
- Salt ToleranceGood, growing naturally in exposed coastal positions in its native range
- Wind ToleranceVery wind-firm, holding form in exposed coastal and elevated positions
- Cultural SignificanceThe traditional fibre plant of New Zealand, long used for weaving and cordage
The New Zealand Flax gives a strong vertical line in a coastal or civic scheme and holds it without any maintenance.
Availability by project review. Sizes, quantities, origin and export readiness are confirmed after your plant schedule is reviewed against destination, timing and quarantine requirements. MEWA certified for supply into Saudi Arabia; Australian Export Registered Establishment.
Enquiries: sales@ornatecinternational.com
310 Donkin Rd, Utchee Creek QLD 4871, Australia
Prepared 12 September 2026