kōwharawhara
Astelia solandri | kōwharawhara, perching lily
A striking perrenial known for its distinctive light green, drooping, flax-like foliage. This hardy, evergreen forms a wide, lush, tufted presence. In summer, it produces large flower heads with masses of tiny, fragrant flowers that mature into vibrant yellow berries, persisting through the year. While commonly found as an epiphyte in the wild, perching on tree branches, it also thrives when planted in the ground. Its unique form makes it excellent for creating a dramatic effect as a specimen plant, mass-planted under larger shrubs, or in containers.
typical habitat.
lowland forest
lower montane forest
montane forest
drainage.
well drained
sun.
full shade
partial shade
mature specifications.
height | 1.5m
width | 1.5m
pollinators calendar.
flowering | October - June
fruiting | January - December
did you know?
Often mistaken for flax due to their similar appearance, Astelias are actually perennial herbs belonging to the Lily family, unique to the Pacific but mostly found in New Zealand. Surprisingly, these plants are epiphytes, meaning they can grow on land but also develop aerial roots, commonly seen on cliff faces or nestled in tree branches.