Product description
Phormium Golden Ray is an outstanding clump-forming evergreen shrub that features long variegated blade-like leaves. It is an excellent architectural plant grown as borders along roadsides in urban conditions. It is native to New Zealand where it was cultivated for its resourceful fibre by the natives. Its striking golden-green foliage and its upright, clump-forming habit makes it a perfect bush for gardens.
Golden Ray or Flax plant is easy to grow and requires low maintenance. It features long leaves with a central green band and ivory coloured vertical bands surrounding it. The leaves of Phormium Golden Ray will grow as tall as 2 feet, arching and look stunning with bronze margins. In summer, tall stalks bearing small orange flowers emerge from the shrub. These flowers are a rich source of nectar for hummingbirds.
Phormium plants thrive well in full sun to partial sunlight when planted in a well-drained soil. Keep in mind, too much moisture can cause the roots of the plant to rot. Phormium plants prefer coastal soil but do well even in inland areas. Avoid planting them in sunny spots that receive full sunlight in hot afternoons.
Once established, these plants will grow drought tolerant and hardy. Mix organic compost in the potting soil to retain moisture when growing them in large containers.
Phormium Golden Ray will look great as borders along with other flowering shrubs. Their glossy foliage will provide the necessary backdrop for other colourful plants. Use them to decorate your patio or indoors as houseplants.
Garden Plant Size Guide
Plants in larger pots can be multiple years older than their smaller counterparts with more mature root systems and foliage. This makes them able to thrive as a full size plant in your garden quicker than smaller alternatives.
The most common size of pot that garden plants come in are 9cm/1L/3L/5L this is in reference to the diameter at the top of the pot.
9cm potted plants still remain the most popular cost effective option though, they just may take a little patience to allow them to grow into full maturity once planted in your garden.
Plant specs, care guide & tips
Key features
Specifications
When to plant
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
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Planting and period of interest times are general guidelines and may vary based on your location and conditions. For best results, consult local gardening resources.
Instructions
Top Tip
Prune Phormium's dead or damaged leaves regularly to maintain a neat appearance and encourage healthy new growth.
How to Water
Water Phormium regularly, especially in dry periods, but avoid waterlogging. Ensure the soil remains moist but well-drained. Once established, Phormium is drought-tolerant and requires less frequent watering.
How to Plant
Plant Phormium in well-drained soil in a sunny or partially shaded location. Dig a hole large enough to accommodate the root ball, place the plant in the hole, and backfill with soil. Water thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil around the roots.