Phormium Cookianum Green
Phormium cookianum Green
Common Names:
Mountain Flax, Wharariki, Green Mountain Flax
Family:
Asphodelaceae
Origin:
New Zealand
Plant Type:
Evergreen Flax / Architectural Perennial
Overview:
Phormium cookianum Green is a graceful and versatile New Zealand native flax, valued for its softer, arching green foliage and adaptability across a wide range of conditions. Compared to Phormium tenax, it has a more relaxed form, making it ideal for naturalistic planting, erosion control, and coastal or alpine landscapes.
Key Features:
Foliage: Soft, arching, strap-like leaves in fresh green tones
Flowers / Fruit: Tall stems with tubular yellow-green flowers in spring to summer; highly attractive to birds
Form & Habit: Elegant, arching, clump-forming habit with a more flowing appearance than upright flax types
Growth Rate: Moderate to fast
Cultural & Ecological Value: Important native plant providing nectar for tūī and bellbirds; used traditionally by Māori
Mature Size:
| Attribute | Size |
|---|---|
| Height | 1m–1.5m |
| Spread | 1m–2m |
| Form | Arching, clumping |
Ideal Growing Conditions:
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Light | Full sun to part shade |
| Water | Moderate; prefers some moisture but tolerates short dry periods |
| Soil | Tolerates a wide range; prefers well-drained but moisture-retentive soils |
| pH Range | Acid to neutral |
| Frost Tolerance | Hardy; tolerates frost, wind, and exposed conditions |
Landscaping & Garden Uses:
- Ideal for naturalistic and native-style plantings
- Excellent for erosion control on banks and slopes
- Suitable for coastal, windy, and exposed sites
- Works well in mass planting or as a softer alternative to upright flax varieties
Care & Maintenance:
Pruning: Remove old or damaged leaves from the base as needed
Watering: Keep reasonably watered during establishment; more tolerant once established
Feeding: Minimal requirements; optional light feed in spring
Pests & Diseases: Generally hardy and low-maintenance
Additional Tips:
Performs especially well in cooler, wetter climates and coastal environments. Space plants to allow their natural arching form to develop.
Fun Fact / Botanical Insight:
Phormium cookianum is naturally found in coastal cliffs and alpine regions, making it one of the most adaptable flax species in New Zealand.
Why Choose Phormium cookianum Green?
A softer, more flowing alternative to traditional flax, offering resilience, versatility, and natural beauty—perfect for a wide range of landscaping applications.
Pot Size:
These are our standard size in 7cm 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.
