Phormium Sundowner – Buy, Learn & Grow

Phormium sundowner is a grass-like evergreen perennial also known as New Zealand flax. It is a perfect addition to exotic gardens. It has arching, sword-shaped, multicoloured leaves which come in different shades of red, pink, green and bronze.

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In summer, it produces small, tubular greenish-yellow flowers that emerge from tall stalks. It has an erect, clump-forming habit. This cultivar is generally free of diseases.

Phormium Sundowner - New Zealand Flax

Phormium Sundowner – New Zealand Flax

How to grow and care for phormium sundowner

Planting phormium sundowner is a great way to highlight important areas in your garden. It is a low maintenance plant.

You must water regularly until it establishes an extensive root system. It does not need much watering after that though. About 1 inch of water per week from rainfall or irrigation will do. You must keep it well watered in summer.

The container-grown phormium should be kept sufficiently moist but not soggy to prevent fungal disease. New Zealand flax is very adaptable so it will thrive without fertilising. You may apply some organic matter to help conserve moisture and provide it with nutrients. Remove dead or damaged leaves in autumn to encourage vigorous growth. You may trim it again in spring if winter temperatures damage leaves.

Phormium 'Sundowner'

Phormium ‘Sundowner’

Where should I position phormium sundowner in my garden

Phormium sundowner can be positioned facing any direction. It is best to grow it in full sun or partial shade. It may be placed in an exposed area, they are quite happy there.

What is the height and spread of phormium sundowner?

Phormium Sundowner grows at a moderate rate. Its ultimate size depends on your growing conditions. It grows 2 metres tall on average and reaches a spread of 1 to 1.5 metres in 10 to 20 years.

Flax Lily Phormium tenax Sundowner

Flax Lily Phormium tenax Sundowner

What kind of soil does phormium sundowner need?

The best soil for planting phormium sundowner is one that has adequate moisture. Sandy and loamy soils are the most appropriate. It should be organically rich and free draining. It may have an acidic, alkaline or neutral pH.

Other types of Phormium we cover:

Phormium Black Adder, Black Velvet, Bronze Baby, Colensoi, Cookianum, Evening Glow, Golden Ray,  Jester, Maori Queen, Pink Stripe, Platts Black, Rainbow Queen / Maiden, Phormium Sundowner, Phormium Tenax, Phormium Tenax Variegatum, Yellow Wave.

Further reading:

Where to buy Phormium Sundowner?

Other Phormium Varieties

Phormium FAQs