New Zealand Flax: A Field Guide

Solid and strappy, New Zealand flax is a versatile garden player. It’s deer resistant, drought-tolerant, and can handle life by the seaside. Plus, it brings on the drama through bold form and color.

Phormium—a genus of two species native to New Zealand—pops in yellow, green, red, and purple-brown colorations, both solid and multi-toned. Dwarf varieties can anchor a container, while some cultivars hit 15 feet in the garden. Their striking, upright form lends phormium to modern designs, yet the genus integrates well in a variety of styles. Avoid planting phormium under trees that shed, like redwoods. Tree duff, if not removed, will rot the crown. Otherwise, very easy care.