New Zealand Flax

Phormium ‘Gold Ray’ is part of the plant family Asphodelaceae and is native to New Zealand. In ancient times the Maori used the fibres of Phormium in weaving rope and sail making.

More recently, the Phormium and its varieties have been widely cultivated as ornamental garden plants. Because of its architectural nature, it is often used as a focal point of a garden.

Phormium ‘Gold Ray’ is easy to grow, and whilst it will thrive in full sun it can also handle some shade. It likes to be kept well-watered, especially when establishing in the ground. It is a hungry plant so feed it with a slow-release fertiliser in spring and summer.

The leaves were and still are used as a decorative and structural element panelling found within meeting houses.