Astelia fragrans
Common Names: Bush flax, Kākaha
Family: Asteliaceae
Origin: New Zealand (endemic)
Plant Type: Evergreen, clump-forming perennial

Overview:
Graceful NZ native with long, arching, green strap leaves that form tidy clumps. Excellent for bringing lush texture and a forest-floor look to shaded or sheltered sites.

Key Features:
Foliage: Broad, glossy green, strap-like leaves; subtle silvery tones beneath on mature plants
Flowers / Fruit: Discreet spring flowers; female plants may set orange berries that add seasonal colour and attract birds
Form & Habit: Clump-forming, fountain-like rosettes; gently weeping leaves
Growth Rate: Moderate
Cultural & Ecological Value: Native woodland understory species; useful for wildlife-friendly plantings

Mature Size:
Attribute Size
Height 0.8–1.2 m
Spread 0.8–1.2 m
Form Clump-forming, arching, strappy

Ideal Growing Conditions:
Requirement Detail
Light Partial shade to bright shade (tolerates gentle morning sun)
Water Moderate; enjoys consistent moisture, short dry spells once established
Soil Free-draining, humus-rich; tolerates coastal conditions with shelter
pH Range Neutral to slightly acidic
Frost Tolerance Handles light frosts; protect in colder inland sites

Landscaping & Garden Uses:
Understory and shady borders
Native/coastal gardens and mass plantings
Textural contrast with ferns and grasses
Suitable for containers in sheltered courtyards

Care & Maintenance:
Pruning: Remove old or damaged leaves at the base to tidy
Watering: Keep evenly moist while establishing; deepen watering in dry periods
Feeding: Light application of slow-release fertiliser in spring
Pests & Diseases: Generally pest- and disease-resistant; avoid waterlogging to prevent crown/root rot

Additional Tips:
Mulch to conserve moisture and keep roots cool; shelter from hot, dry winds for best leaf quality.

Fun Fact / Botanical Insight:
The species epithet fragrans refers to its fragrant floral/fruiting structures observed in the wild.

Why Choose Astelia fragrans?
A robust, low-maintenance native that delivers lush, architectural foliage in shade—ideal where colour and texture are needed year-round.

Pot Size:
These are our large size in 9cm square pots.