Phormium Jack Spratt
Phormium ‘Jack Spratt’
Common Names: Dwarf Flax, Mini NZ Flax
Family: Asphodelaceae
Origin: New Zealand
Plant Type: Evergreen Perennial (Flax)
Overview
Phormium ‘Jack Spratt’ is a compact, dwarf New Zealand flax prized for its neat form and rich, dark green foliage. Much smaller than standard flaxes, it’s ideal for modern gardens, edging, containers, and low-maintenance landscapes where structure and year-round colour are desired.
Key Features
Foliage: Narrow, upright, deep green leaves with a tidy, architectural look
Flowers / Fruit: Occasional dark red flower spikes in summer on mature plants, attractive to birds
Form & Habit: Compact, clump-forming, symmetrical growth
Growth Rate: Slow to moderate
Cultural & Ecological Value: Hardy NZ native; low-maintenance and tolerant of varied conditions
Mature Size
| Attribute | Size |
|---|---|
| Height | 40–60 cm |
| Spread | 40–60 cm |
| Form | Compact clump |
Ideal Growing Conditions
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Light | Full sun to part shade |
| Water | Low to moderate once established |
| Soil | Free-draining soil; adaptable to most soil types |
| pH Range | Neutral to slightly acidic |
| Frost Tolerance | Hardy; tolerates frost and coastal exposure |
Landscaping & Garden Uses
-
Edging and borders
-
Mass planting for low, uniform structure
-
Containers and pots
-
Coastal, urban, and low-maintenance gardens
Care & Maintenance
Pruning: Remove old or damaged leaves as required
Watering: Water regularly during establishment; drought tolerant once established
Feeding: Minimal; light application of general fertiliser in spring if desired
Pests & Diseases: Generally pest- and disease-free
Additional Tips
Excellent choice for tight spaces where standard flaxes are too large. Performs well in windy and coastal sites.
Fun Fact / Botanical Insight
‘Jack Spratt’ was selected specifically for its dwarf habit, making it one of the most popular small flaxes for contemporary landscape design.
Why Choose Phormium ‘Jack Spratt’?
A tough, compact NZ native that delivers year-round structure with minimal upkeep—perfect for modern gardens and containers where space is limited.
Pot Size: These are our large size in 9cm square 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.
