Established quick growing plants, in 20 litre pots.
Phormium Plant Variegatum 80-100cm 20 Litre: Phormium Tenax Variegatum, commonly known as Variegated New Zealand Flax, is an eye-catching plant that belongs to the Phormium genus. It is native to New Zealand and is widely cultivated for its striking variegated foliage and architectural presence.
One of the most distinctive features of Phormium Tenax Variegatum is its large, sword-like leaves. The leaves are long, upright, they can can and often do reach heights in excess of 2m. They grow in a fan-like arrangement from the base of the plant, forming a dense clump. The leaves are characterised by their bold variegation, which consists of stripes or margins of creamy white, with a touch of yellow, or pink against a deep green background. This variegation adds a dramatic and dynamic element to the plant, making it a focal point in any garden or landscape.
Phormium Tenax Variegatum produces tall flower spikes that rise above the foliage during the summer months. The flower spikes can reach a height of around 3 metres and are adorned with clusters of tubular, red or orange flowers.
This variegated New Zealand Flax is a versatile plant that can thrive in a range of growing conditions. It is tolerant of coastal conditions, including salt spray, making it a popular choice for seaside gardens. It also tolerates a variety of soil types, including sandy or clay soils, as long as they are well-drained. Phormium Tenax Variegatum prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade as well.
In terms of maintenance, this plant is relatively low-maintenance once established. It is drought-tolerant and can withstand periods of dryness. However, regular watering during hot and dry periods will help to promote healthy growth. Pruning is not necessary, but removing any dead or damaged leaves can help maintain the plant's appearance.
Phormium Tenax Variegatum is commonly used as a specimen plant in garden beds, borders, or large containers. It adds a bold and tropical look to landscapes and can create a stunning focal point or provide vertical interest. Its variegated foliage provides year-round colour and texture, making it an excellent choice for adding visual interest to gardens.
RHS Award for Garden Merit.
Planting Position: Best planted in a sunny spot through to light shade partial shade, somewhere it can be seen and admired. Will do well in damp areas but not waterlogged areas.
Soil: Will sit happily and adapt to most soil types does especially well in damp free draining damp soil heavy clay should be avoided as this is generally very wet or very dry.
Suitable for container planting: Yes a great choice for pot or ground, if pot planting keep in mind these plants can get very big.
Eventual height and spread: Typically approximately 2 metres tall with a similar spread.
Growth Speed: Relatively quick
Growth Habit: Draping almost cascading
Flowering Period: July and August, however this does depend on summer temperatures, the warmer the climate the more probable flowering will be.
Pruning: Not really a requirement.
Variegatum is a clump forming medium sized evergreen, any winter damage should be removed in spring before the growing season begins.
Foliage: Variegated, green edged creamy white.
Evergreen: Yes
Phormium are a tough plant that require very little maintenance apart from a tidy up after winter. Adding some well-rotted manure or slow release fertiliter in early spring to the planted area will give the plants a boost after the dormant months and stimulate new season growth.
