Harvesting of Phormium tenax typically begins in late summer, usually in August or September.
New Zealand flax
Phormium tenax
New Zealand flax (Phormium tenax) is an evergreen perennial shrub native to New Zealand. Its rigid, strap-like leaves grow between three and seven feet in height, and can be found anywhere from red-brown to creamy yellow in color. The flowers are a vibrant red and pink, and while they may not be fragrant, they are attractive to hummingbirds and other native pollinators. Once the flowers have bloomed and gone to seed, New Zealand flax produces edible fruits in the shape of large, dark-green pods that can be used to make jams and jellies. This plant is an ideal addition to any garden, adding both visual interest and edible treats!
Cycle:
Herbaceous Perennial
Watering:
Average
Propagation:
Seed Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
9 - 11
Flowers:
Red Flowers
Sun:
Full sun,part shade
Soil:
Well-drained
Fruits:
green,brown,black Fruits In Autumn Ready In
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
bronze,green,yellow,pink
Growth Rate:
Moderate
Maintenance:
Low
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Thorny:
Yes
Invasive:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
New Zealand flax should be watered deeply and infrequently, allowing the top 2-4 inches of soil to dry out between waterings. During the summer months, it is best to water the plant once every 7-10 days. During the winter and spring months, water the New Zealand flax about once every 2 weeks. If rainfall is frequent and regular during the summer months, it may be unnecessary to water.
sunlight
New Zealand flax plants prefer full sunlight and hot weather; however, they can tolerate partial shade as long as they receive at least 4–6 hours of direct sunlight each day. These plants should be in full sun during the cooler months when temperatures are below 16°C (60°F). During the hotter months, temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F) but it’s best not to expose the plants to long periods of hot afternoon sun as this could cause the leaves to burn. In general, morning sun is ideal for this plant species.
pruning
New Zealand Flax should be pruned at least once a year. It is best to do this in the spring to avoid any cold damage. Furthermore, you should remove any dead leaves and flower stalks. For more vigorous pruning, you should remove 1-third of the plant length and thin out crowded clumps to encourage new growth and promote healthier plants. Be careful not to over prune as this will cause damage to the plant.
Season
Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit
Starts Flowering
New Zealand flax typically starts flowering in late spring or early summer, usually between May and July.
Starts Flowering
New Zealand flax typically starts flowering in late spring or early summer, usually between May and July.
Harvest Fruit
Harvesting of Phormium tenax typically begins in late summer, usually in August or September.
