Phormium Atropurpureum
New Zealand Flax
Purple New Zealand Flax (Phormium tenax ‘Atropurpureum’) forms a bold evergreen clump of long, sword-shaped leaves in deep maroon and purple tones. The leaves rise from the base in broad fans, creating strong lines that stand out among softer garden textures.
Its foliage supplies the main ornamental interest through the year in mild climates. A single plant can anchor a mixed border, while a large container brings the same sculptural effect to a terrace or entrance. Allow generous space for the leaves to spread naturally.
Plant in sun to partial shade with fertile, well-drained soil. Regular water during establishment helps the clump develop. Severe winter cold can damage the foliage, so choose a sheltered position near the cooler edge of its growing range.
Size
• Width: About 5 ft
• Height: About 5 ft; size varies by climate
Hardiness
• USDA cold-hardiness guide: Zone 8a; best suited to mild-winter climates
Best Uses
• Foliage specimen
• Large patio containers
• Mixed borders
• Coastal gardens
• Architectural accent planting
- Plant type
- Perennial
- Height
- 5 ft
- Width
- 5 ft
- Hardiness zones
- 8–11
- Sunlight
- Full sun to part shade
- Growth rate
- Moderate
- Bloom time
- Summer
- Leaf color
- Maroon, Purple
- Soil
- Rich, Well Drained
- Landscape use
- Accent Plant, Border, Container
- Shape
- Clumping, Upright
- Fruit
- No
- Fragrant
- No
- Deer resistant
- Yes
- Salt tolerant
- No
- Drought tolerant
- No