Phormiums

What is a Phormium

Phormiums are evergreen, clump-forming shrubs from New Zealand and they’re as tough as old boots. They come in many different varieties, most of which can be considered hardy. The guide here focuses specifically on the Phormium Tenax as it is by far the most commonly used in the UK. Phormium tenax is also known as New Zealand Flax.

Why Choose a Phormium

-If you need some structure and impact and you don't want to wait 20 years for it. Phormiums grow very quickly.

-If you are looking to create a dry garden, a coastal garden or an Australasian setting - Phormium Tenax are very flexible in appearance and work well in many different planting schemes.

-If you want a large plant that can cope with coastal conditions or very exposed conditions - Phormium Tenax can cope better than anything else in very windy environments.

-If you want a bold feature plant.

Where to plant Phormiums

-Phormium Tenax plants need sunny spots but can cope with partial sun.

-They cope fantastically well with wind.

-Soil type is generally unimportant to Phormiums but try to avoid soil that waterlogs in winter.

-The Phormium Tenax is low maintenance and, once established, no additional feeding or watering will be necessary unless potted.

-They are clump-forming by nature which allows division in early spring if size reduction is required or if you want to produce more plants.

-Pruning of the Phormium Tenax is generally unnecessary but can be done to remove old and tatty growth. This is only necessary once or twice a year.