Phormium Duet
Phormium 'Duet' (Phormium cookianum hybrid)
Common Names: Duet Flax, Variegated New Zealand Flax Family: Asphodelaceae Origin: New Zealand
Plant Type: Evergreen Perennial
Overview:
Phormium 'Duet' is a compact, evergreen perennial known for its striking cream and green variegated foliage. With its tidy clumping habit and soft, arching leaves, 'Duet' is ideal for small gardens, containers, or as a bright accent in mixed borders. This hardy and low-maintenance plant adds texture and light to both modern and cottage-style landscapes.
Key Features:
Foliage: Creamy-white and green striped, strap-like leaves with a soft, arching form; year-round interest.
Flowers/Fruit: Occasionally produces tall flower spikes in summer with tubular yellow or green flowers, though flowering is infrequent in cooler climates.
Form & Habit: Compact, arching clump with a graceful fountain-like shape.
Growth Rate: Moderate.
Cultural or Ecological Value: Provides shelter and occasional nectar for pollinators; excellent choice for wildlife-friendly gardens.
Mature Size:
| Attribute | Size |
|---|---|
| Height | 0.6–0.9 meters (2–3 feet) |
| Spread | 0.6–1 meter (2–3.5 feet) |
| Form | Compact, arching |
Ideal Growing Conditions:
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Light | Full Sun to Partial Shade |
| Water | Low to Moderate; drought-tolerant once established |
| Soil | Well-drained, fertile soils |
| pH Range | Neutral to slightly acidic |
| Hardiness Zones | USDA Zones 8–11 |
| Frost Tolerance | Moderate; tolerates light frost |
Landscaping and Garden Uses:
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Ideal for borders and small gardens needing a splash of brightness.
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Perfect for containers on patios, balconies, or entryways.
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Works well as an accent in coastal gardens and low-maintenance landscapes.
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Great for mass planting or combining with darker-leaved plants for contrast.
Care and Maintenance:
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Pruning: Remove dead or damaged leaves at the base to maintain a tidy form.
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Watering: Water regularly during dry spells; avoid overwatering.
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Feeding: Use a slow-release balanced fertilizer in spring.
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Pests and Diseases: Generally pest- and disease-resistant. Occasionally affected by scale or aphids.
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Additional Tips: Mulch to suppress weeds and retain moisture; suitable for windy or coastal locations.
Fun Fact or Botanical Insight:
The name "Duet" refers to the plant’s two-tone foliage, making it a standout among more monotone flax varieties. It’s a cultivar of Phormium cookianum, known for its softer and more arching habit compared to Phormium tenax.
Why Choose Phormium 'Duet'?
With its compact size, elegant variegated foliage, and easy-care nature, Phormium 'Duet' is a versatile and stylish choice for adding brightness and texture to gardens of any size. Ideal for containers or borders, it brings year-round appeal with minimal effort.
Pot Size:
These are XL size in 1.5 llitre round pots.
Pot Size:
Standard Pot = 7cm Square
Large Pot = 9cm Square
Extra Large Pot = 1.5L Round
Use this guide to see how many plants of your selected pot size fit into a half or full carton.
Standard Pot = 25 plants per Carton
Large Pot= 10 plants per Carton
Extra Large Pot = 5 plants per Carton
Urban- $16.55 per Carton Rural- $23.85 per Carton
Standard Pot = 50 plants per Carton
Large Pot= 25 plants per Carton
Extra Large Pot = 10 plants per Carton
Urban- $16.55 per Carton Rural- $23.85 per Carton
Product Size:
The photo next to the ruler shows an example of the plant for sale (cm's) to give an indication of the size. Please note that the photo is for reference only; the size and appearance of the plant may vary.
Please Note:
Shipping charge applies. Available for immediate dispatch only, while stocks last.
