harakeke

Phormium tenax | harakeke, flax, kōrari (Māori name for inflorescence)

A striking, robust perennial forming large clumps of broad, vibrant green, sword-like leaves, reaching about 2m tall and wide. Beyond its significant value for weaving and fiber production, it's an excellent choice for low shelter and erosion control due to its extensive root system. In summer, erect stems bear twisted flowers, producing nectar that attracts birds and butterflies, followed by black seed pods in autumn. Very hardy, it thrives in diverse environments from swamps to coastal regions, preferring full sun and good drainage. This popular landscape plant is often mass-planted on banks for both stunning display and soil stabilisation, or used to create color contrast.