Phormium 'Emerald Gem'

Common Names: Emerald Gem Flax, Dwarf Green Flax
Family: Asphodelaceae
Origin: New Zealand
Plant Type: Evergreen Perennial

Overview:

Phormium 'Emerald Gem' is a compact, evergreen perennial with soft, arching, emerald green leaves that bring a lush, tidy look to garden beds, borders, and containers. Unlike many larger flax varieties, this dwarf form is well-suited for smaller spaces or mass planting. Its vibrant foliage and easy-care nature make it a versatile addition to both modern and naturalistic garden designs.

Key Features:

Foliage: Narrow, strap-like leaves in a fresh, clean green. Foliage remains vibrant year-round and has a softer texture than many other Phormium varieties.
Flowers/Fruit: May occasionally produce slender flower spikes in summer with tubular flowers, though rarely seen in cultivation.
Form & Habit: Low, mounding clump with gently arching leaves.
Growth Rate: Moderate.
Cultural or Ecological Value: Excellent groundcover or companion plant; provides shelter for insects and ground-dwelling birds in natural settings.

Mature Size:

Ideal Growing Conditions:

Landscaping and Garden Uses:

• Perfect for border edges, mass planting, or underplanting larger shrubs

• Excellent in containers for patios, decks, and courtyards

• Ideal for low-maintenance and coastal gardens

• Use for textural contrast with bold or colorful foliage plants

• A great choice for modern garden designs needing structured greenery

Care and Maintenance:

• Pruning: Trim out old or damaged leaves at the base in late winter or early spring

• Watering: Water during dry periods until established, then only occasionally

• Feeding: Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring

• Pests and Diseases: Very resilient; watch for occasional aphids or scale insects

• Additional Tips: Avoid heavy, waterlogged soils; mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds

Fun Fact or Botanical Insight:

Phormium ‘Emerald Gem’ is a hybrid selection bred for its smaller size and clean green coloration — offering the structural elegance of New Zealand flax in a more manageable form for residential landscapes.

Why Choose Phormium 'Emerald Gem'?

If you're after a compact, evergreen plant with neat, year-round appeal, Phormium 'Emerald Gem' ticks all the boxes. It’s hardy, tidy, and versatile — perfect for gardeners and designers who want texture and structure without overwhelming a space.

Pot Size:

These are our large size plants in 9cm square pots.