This variable perennial has an upright clump with large strap-like yellow-green leaves that may droop. The reddish-green tube-shaped flowers appear in an open cluster held above the foliage on a tall stem in early summer followed by twisted capsules.

Hardiness zones 8 to 11

Phormium cookianumis naturally found throughout New Zealand growing from coastal cliffs to low-mountain regions and appeares along stream banks or in sub alpine areas.

It perfers an open sunny position but will tolerate some shade and grows in most well drained moderatly fertile moist soils. It is drought, frost and salt laden wind tolerant but is sensitive to wet humid positions.

Mountain Flax is grown for its foliage and its clumping habit. It is planted in small or large gardens along borers or used in large rockeries. It is suitable for exposed coastal positions or low-mountain regions establishing in 2 to 3 years. It is also gown in containers and there are many cultivars available. ID 2826

Note:
There are two distinct forms of this plant, a small one with stiff leaves that grows to 600mm (2ft) tall with bright green leaves and a larger plant with drooping leaves up to 2m (6ft) tall.

Phormium (FOR-mee-um) cookianum(cook-ee-AH-num)

Agavaceae (ah-gav-AY-see-ee)