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Mountain Flax

Phormium Cookianum

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Overview

Phormium cookianum, commonly known as Mountain Flax, is a robust, evergreen perennial sporting sword-like leaves, reaching up to 3 ft in length. This New Zealand native thrives in USDA zones 8-10, preferring well-drained soils and full to partial sun. It boasts unique, curving yellow or red flower spikes up to 5 ft tall, adding a dramatic touch to the landscape. Low-maintenance; ideal for mass planting and coastal gardens.

Sun Full, HalfWater Extra in Summer, Low, Medium, Very LowZones 8–10

Culture

Sun
Full, Half
Water
Extra in Summer, Low, Medium, Very Low
USDA zones
8–10

Shape & size

Classification

Family
Agavaceae

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Photos (68)

Mountain Flax (Phormium Cookianum) — This New Zealand native thrives in USDA zones 8-10, preferring well-drained soils and full to partial sun
Mountain Flax (Phormium Cookianum) — adding a dramatic touch to the landscape
Mountain Flax (Phormium Cookianum) — curving yellow or red flower spikes up to 5 ft tall
Mountain Flax (Phormium Cookianum) — reaching up to 3 ft in length
Mountain Flax (Phormium Cookianum) — evergreen perennial sporting sword-like leaves
Mountain Flax (Phormium Cookianum) — commonly known as Mountain Flax
Mountain Flax (Phormium Cookianum) — making it an ideal focal point or accent plant.<br><br>The leaves of Mountain Flax offer a variety of colors
Mountain Flax (Phormium Cookianum) — Low-maintenance; ideal for mass planting and coastal gardens
Mountain Flax (Phormium Cookianum) — commonly known as Mountain Flax or Wharariki
Mountain Flax (Phormium Cookianum) — is a robust and versatile perennial native to New Zealand
Mountain Flax (Phormium Cookianum) — Its architectural form and richly textured foliage add a touch of exotic sophistication to landscape designs
Mountain Flax (Phormium Cookianum) — dramatic flower spikes can shoot up to an additional 6 to 10 feet
Mountain Flax (Phormium Cookianum) — providing visual interest throughout the year
Mountain Flax (Phormium Cookianum) — from coastal exposure to partial shade
Mountain Flax (Phormium Cookianum) — It requires minimal maintenance once established
Mountain Flax (Phormium Cookianum) — consider its need for space
Mountain Flax (Phormium Cookianum) — as the plant's foliage can be quite expansive
Mountain Flax (Phormium Cookianum) — Space them approximately 3 to 4 feet apart to allow for mature growth
Mountain Flax (Phormium Cookianum) — withstanding temperatures down to approximately 20&deg;F to 25&deg;F
Mountain Flax (Phormium Cookianum) — though it should be protected from harsh
Mountain Flax (Phormium Cookianum) — <br><br>Mountain Flax's resilience
Mountain Flax (Phormium Cookianum) — coupled with its striking appearance
Mountain Flax (Phormium Cookianum) — makes it a valuable addition to borders
Mountain Flax (Phormium Cookianum) — perennial / shrub for full or half

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