Smaller more arching New Zealand flax, with weaker but more flexible leaf fibre than the larger Phormium tenax already in the database. Naturally found on cliffs and coastal slopes throughout New Zealand.
Hardiness ratings
| System | Rating | Temperature range | How to read it |
|---|---|---|---|
| USDA hardiness zone | Zone 8–10 | −12.2 °C to 4.4 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
| RHS hardiness rating | H4 | −10 °C to −5 °C | Plant needs at least this level of cold tolerance |
| Canadian plant hardiness zone | Zone 9 | −1 °C and warmer | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
| Australian (ANBG) zone | Zone 3–6 | −5 °C to 15 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
Growing notes
- Leaf fibre is softer and more flexible than P. tenax — historically the preferred Maori fibre (muka) for kete (woven baskets) and finer cloak work
- More compact and arching habit than P. tenax — better suited to ornamental use in smaller gardens
- Distinct from Phormium tenax (already in the database as `phormium`) — wharariki has narrower leaves that arch outward, the larger harakeke (P. tenax) has stiff upright leaves
- Frost tolerant to about -6 °C, salt tolerant — excellent coastal plant
Categories
Related plants
Cross-check Mountain flax (Wharariki) against your zones