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Phormium tenax 'Sweet Mist' (New Zealand flax)

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Plant description

phormium tenax phormium sweet mist.

phormium tenax phormium sweetmist

Phormium tenax 'Sweet Mist' is a compact burgundy coloured form of New Zealand flax. It is a hardy and tough perennial with bronze strappy leaves. It tolerates a wide range of soil types, and will grow in full sun to part shade. It is drought and frost tolerant when established, and is suitable for coastal plantings. The smaller size of this variety makes it good for container growing, as well as being a great garden addition for massed planting or as a specimen plant. The upright habit is good for planting in narrow spaces, such as next to driveways and paths. It is rarely troubled by pests or diseases.

Phormium is native to New Zealand. The common name comes from the fact that the leaves can be used as a good fibre source. It was traditionally used for rope making, as well as for clothing, baskets, sails and roofs. It is has medicinal properties. The roots are boiled and crushed, and are used externally for boils and abcesses. The sap contains enzymes that give it blood clotting and antiseptic properties. The seed contains high levels of omega-3 oils. The leaves can also be used for paper making.

Additional plant information

Flowers

Flower colour: not specified
Flowering season: spring summer

Plant size

Maximum height: 0.5 metres
Minimum height: not specified

Maximum width: 0.5 metres
Minimum width: not specified

Sunlight, frost & salt tolerance

This plant will tolerate full or partial sunlight.
Medium frost tolerance.
Plant is salt tolerant.

Fauna attracting?

Yes. Attracts: Birds, insects, bees.

Climate

This plant species will grow in the following climates: cool, temperate, subtropical, tropical.

Soil types & conditions

Loam: dry, moist, well-drained.

Clay: well-drained.

Sand: well-drained.

Soil pH: 4.5-8

Miscellaneous information

Planting season: Any.

Types of fertiliser: Good general purpose fertiliser.

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