Phormium Jester
Phormium ‘Jester’
Common Names: Jester Flax, New Zealand Flax
Family: Asphodelaceae
Origin: New Zealand (cultivar of Phormium tenax and related hybrids)
Plant Type: Evergreen Architectural Perennial
Overview
Phormium ‘Jester’ is a vibrant and colourful New Zealand flax prized for its dramatic upright foliage striped with rich pink, bronze, and olive-green tones. This hardy evergreen forms a tidy clump and provides bold year-round structure, making it an excellent feature plant for modern gardens, coastal landscapes, and containers.
Key Features
Foliage: Narrow, upright leaves display striking shades of rose-pink, bronze, and green, with the colour intensifying in cooler weather.
Flowers / Fruit: Mature plants may produce tall flower spikes with nectar-rich red blooms that attract tui and bellbirds.
Form & Habit: Compact, upright clumping habit with strong architectural form.
Growth Rate: Moderate.
Cultural & Ecological Value: Provides nectar for native birds and adds strong visual contrast to mixed plantings.
Mature Size
| Attribute | Size |
|---|---|
| Height | 1–1.2 m |
| Spread | 1–1.2 m |
| Form | Upright, clump-forming |
Ideal Growing Conditions
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Light | Full sun to part shade |
| Water | Low to moderate once established |
| Soil | Well-drained soil; tolerant of clay, sand, and coastal conditions |
| pH Range | Acid to neutral |
| Frost Tolerance | Hardy to moderate and heavy frosts |
Landscaping & Garden Uses
- Feature plant for modern and architectural gardens.
- Excellent for pots and large containers.
- Ideal for adding colour contrast to mixed borders.
- Suitable for coastal and windy sites.
- Effective in mass plantings and low-maintenance landscapes.
Care & Maintenance
Pruning: Remove old or damaged leaves at the base as required.
Watering: Water regularly during establishment; drought tolerant once established.
Feeding: Apply a general-purpose fertiliser in spring to encourage vigorous growth.
Pests & Diseases: Generally pest- and disease-free.
Additional Tips
For the brightest foliage colour, plant in full sun. The pink and bronze tones pair beautifully with silver foliage, dark-leaved shrubs, and flowering perennials.
Fun Fact / Botanical Insight
The cultivar name ‘Jester’ reflects the plant’s playful mix of bold colours, reminiscent of a traditional jester’s costume.
Why Choose Phormium ‘Jester’?
Phormium ‘Jester’ is a tough, eye-catching New Zealand flax that delivers year-round colour and structure. Its compact size and vivid foliage make it perfect for gardeners wanting a low-maintenance statement plant.
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.
