Phormium Tenax ‘Maori Chieftain’ (Maori Chieftain New Zealand Flax)
Phormium Tenax ‘Maori Chieftain’ (Maori Chieftain New Zealand Flax)
Couldn't load pickup availability
Phormium Tenax ‘Maori Chieftain’ (Maori Chieftain New Zealand Flax) is a bold architectural plant prized for its striking upright foliage in deep bronze to red tones. Its long, sword-like leaves form a dramatic fan-shaped clump, making it a standout feature in modern landscapes, coastal gardens, and structural planting designs. The strong colour contrast adds year-round visual impact and works beautifully as a focal point or mass planting.
This hardy evergreen plant is highly valued for its resilience and ability to thrive in a wide range of conditions, including wind, coastal exposure, and dry periods once established. Its upright growth habit makes it ideal for creating height, structure, and texture in garden beds without requiring high maintenance, making it a reliable choice for both residential and commercial landscapes.

Collapsible content
Mature height
1.2–1.8 m
Mature width
1–1.5 m
Spacing
1–1.5 m apart
Evergreen/Deciduous
Evergreen
Foliage
Deep bronze to dark red foliage; may develop stronger colour in full sun
Flowering Period & Fruit Development/Harvest
Summer; tall arching stems with red to yellow tubular flowers
Sun tolerance
Full sun to partial shade
Maintenance
Low maintenance; remove old or damaged leaves as needed
Root System
Dense fibrous clumping root system