Phormium Yellow Wave
Phormium ‘Yellow Wave’
Common Names: Yellow Wave Flax, Variegated NZ Flax
Family: Asphodelaceae
Origin: New Zealand cultivar
Plant Type: Evergreen Flax
Overview
Phormium ‘Yellow Wave’ is a striking variegated NZ flax grown for its bright yellow and green striped foliage. The gracefully arching leaves create a flowing, wave-like effect, bringing movement and colour contrast to garden spaces year-round. Hardy and adaptable, this bold cultivar is ideal for borders, mass planting, containers, and modern landscape designs.
Key Features
Foliage: Long, arching sword-like leaves striped yellow and green
Flowers / Fruit: Mature plants may produce tall flower spikes with tubular blooms in summer
Form & Habit: Clump-forming with arching foliage creating a soft, flowing shape
Growth Rate: Moderate
Cultural & Ecological Value: Flowers attract birds such as tūī and bees when in bloom
Mature Size
| Attribute | Size |
|---|---|
| Height | 1–1.2m |
| Spread | 1–1.2m |
| Form | Arching, clump-forming |
Ideal Growing Conditions
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Light | Full sun to part shade (best colour in full sun) |
| Water | Moderate; drought tolerant once established |
| Soil | Well-drained soil; tolerates coastal and windy conditions |
| pH Range | Acid to neutral |
| Frost Tolerance | Hardy; tolerates frost and exposed sites |
Landscaping & Garden Uses
• Bold feature plant in mixed borders
• Mass planting for colour contrast
• Coastal and exposed gardens
• Containers and contemporary landscape designs
Care & Maintenance
Pruning: Remove old or damaged leaves at the base as needed
Watering: Regular watering during establishment; minimal once established
Feeding: Apply slow-release fertiliser in spring for strong growth
Pests & Diseases: Generally hardy and low maintenance
Additional Tips
Plant in full sun for the brightest variegation. Excellent for adding year-round structure and contrast against darker green shrubs.
Fun Fact / Botanical Insight
Phormium, commonly known as NZ flax or harakeke, has deep cultural significance in New Zealand and has traditionally been used for weaving and fibre production.
Why Choose Phormium ‘Yellow Wave’?
For vibrant colour, architectural structure, and toughness in a wide range of conditions, Phormium ‘Yellow Wave’ is a standout flax that adds energy and movement to the landscape.
Pot Size:
These are our XL size in 1.5l 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.
