Phormium tenax

Plant Details

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General Information

Scientific name: Phormium tenax

Also known as: New Zealand flax

Images: Google Images

Plant Properties

Layer: Shrub

Format: Smal

Height: 3.00 m

Width: 2.00 m

Growth Rate: Fast

Leaf: Evergreen

Growth conditions

USDA Hardiness: 8-10

Soil Moisture:
Moist, Wet

Soil:
Sand (light) Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)

pH:
Acid Neutral Basic

Light:
Half shade, Sun

Usage properties

Edible part:
Gom, Coffee, Nectar

Edibility:
(2)

Medicinal:
(0)

Features:
Glue, Alcohol, Basket-making, Dye, Fibers, Gom, Paper, Carbon farming

Description

The roasted seed is used as a substitute for coffee. The flowers produce edible nectar, and edible gum is harvested from the underside of the leaves.

Harvest Data

Start Harvest: 01/09

End of Harvest: 30/11

Guilds

Guild Information

Click on a plant in the diagram for more information.

Guild Details

Guild	Description
Arbutus unedoxaera Strawberry Tree	Arbutus can provide beneficial shade for Phormium tenax, helping to protect it from intense sun exposure.
Asimina triloba Papaw	Asimina triloba can attract pollinators that are beneficial for Phormium tenax's flowering period.
Broussonetia kazinoki Kozo	This plant can offer structural support and can also enhance biodiversity in the guild.
Broussonetia papyrifera Paper Mulberry	Broussonetia papyrifera can help improve soil structure and provide organic matter when it drops leaves.
Cudrania tricuspidata Silkworm Thorn, Storehousebush	Cudrania can provide shelter and habitat for beneficial insects, promoting a healthy ecosystem around Phormium.
Cydonia oblonga Quince	Cydonia oblonga can deter certain pests that may harm Phormium tenax, enhancing its growth.
Diospyros kaki Persimmon	Diospyros kaki can contribute to nutrient cycling in the soil, aiding the nutrient needs of Phormium tenax.
Diospyros lotus Date Plum	This plant can create a microclimate that can help regulate temperature and moisture for Phormium tenax.
Diospyros virginiana American Persimmon	This companion can provide shade and reduce competition for water, benefiting Phormium tenax.
Eriobotrya japonica Loquat	Eriobotrya japonica can deter pests and diseases that may affect Phormium tenax, acting as a natural pest repellant.
Ficus carica Fig	Ficus carica can provide a habitat for beneficial insects that prey on harmful pests of Phormium tenax.
Halesia carolina Silver-bell tree	This plant can enhance the aesthetic value of the guild and attract additional pollinators.
Hovenia dulcis Japanese Raisin Tree	Hovenia dulcis can provide shade and help maintain the moisture levels in the soil for Phormium tenax.
Malus domestica Apple	Malus domestica can attract beneficial insects that enhance pollination for Phormium tenax.
Morus alba White mulberry	Morus alba can provide shade and help create a balanced ecosystem that supports Phormium tenax growth.
Prunus persica nucipersica Nectarine	Considered a predator attractor, Prunus persica nucipersica may help deter harmful pests from Phormium tenax.
Pyrus communis Pear	This plant can provide nectar for pollinators that also benefit Phormium tenax during its flowering phase.
Ulmus laevis Elm	Ulmus laevis can foster a rich ecosystem, providing habitats for beneficial insects that support Phormium tenax.
Fagus sylvatica Beech	Fagus sylvatica can help enhance soil health and provide necessary shade for Phormium tenax.
Corylus maxima Filbert	Corylus maxima can provide shelter and additional nutrients through leaf litter, benefiting Phormium tenax.