Astelia Fragrans

Astelia fragrans

Common Names: Bush Lily, Kakaha
Family: Asteliaceae
Origin: New Zealand (endemic)
Plant Type: Evergreen Herbaceous Perennial

Overview:

Astelia fragrans is a bold and beautiful native plant with broad, flax-like leaves in soft green to silvery tones and a distinct, clumping habit. Commonly found in damp forest areas across New Zealand, it adds strong form and a lush, architectural look to native gardens. Its fragrant, small flowers and resilience in shade make it a valuable understorey species or feature plant in cooler, sheltered spots.

Key Features:

• Foliage: Long, arching, sword-shaped leaves with green to silvery colouring and a soft texture

• Flowers / Fruit: Small, sweetly scented greenish flowers followed by orange or red berries

• Form & Habit: Clump-forming with a semi-arching, upright habit

• Growth Rate: Moderate

• Cultural & Ecological Value: Provides forest floor structure; berries attract native birds

Mature Size:

Ideal Growing Conditions:

Landscaping & Garden Uses:

• Understory planting in native gardens

• Focal plant for shaded or damp areas

• Pairs beautifully with ferns, hostas, or other broad-leaf natives

• Suitable for containers in sheltered areas

• Adds soft, structural contrast in woodland borders

Care & Maintenance:

• Pruning: Remove damaged or dead leaves to tidy plant

• Watering: Keep soil moist in dry periods

• Feeding: Apply compost or organic mulch annually

• Pests & Diseases: Generally pest-resistant

• Additional Tips: Best performance in sheltered, humid environments

Fun Fact / Botanical Insight:

Despite its strong, flax-like form, Astelia fragrans is not related to harakeke or grasses — it belongs to its own unique plant family. Its softly fragrant flowers are subtle but reward close inspection, especially in spring.

Why Choose Astelia fragrans?

For lush, textural interest in shady or damp garden spots, Astelia fragrans offers year-round structure and beauty. With its native origins and bold foliage, it’s perfect for adding a touch of the wild New Zealand forest to your landscape.

Pot Size:

These are our large size in 9cm square pots.