kakaha

Astelia fragrans | kakaha, bush flax, bush lily

A robust, evergreen perennial, perfect for adding structure and texture to your garden. It forms graceful clumps of arching, sword-shaped leaves that are typically green with a subtle, soft silvery underside. In spring small, fragrant flowers tucked within its foliage, which on female plants develop into vibrant orange berries, offering a pop of seasonal colour and attracting native birds and lizards. This adaptable plant matures to about 1 meter tall and 1.2 meters wide, creating a soft yet defined presence. It's an excellent choice for woodland plantings, or shaded borders, thriving in partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. While generally hardy, it appreciates protection from strong cold winds and heavy frosts. Give plants ample space, around 80–100cm apart, to allow their natural, clumping form to fully develop.