Placeholder

Phormium tenax 'Rubrum'

Also Known As

  • Phormium rubrum
  • New Zealand Flax
  • Rubrum New Zealand Flax

Plant type

perennial, grass / grass like

size

  • H: 3'-6'
  • W: 1'-4'

planting zones

  • 8b-10b

Phormium tenax 'Rubrum' plant details

Phormium tenax 'Rubrum' is a broadleaf evergreen perennial grass (or grassy in appearance) with burgundy foliage. In summer burgundy flowers emerge. Grows well with sun - bright shade and even moisture - occasional water. Does well in rich and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something seaside / salt tolerant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Phormium tenax 'Rubrum'

Plant type: perennial grass (or grassy in appearance)
Plant family: asphodelaceae
Foliage: evergreen burgundy
Mature size: 1 FT - 4 FT - wide, 3 FT - 6 FT - tall
Flowers: burgundy blooms in summer
Uses: container plant

GROWING CONDITIONS for Phormium tenax 'Rubrum'

USDA Zones: 8b - 10b
Sun exposure: sun - bright shade
Watering frequency: even moisture - occasional
Resistant to: deer, seaside / salt
Soil needs: rich and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

This is a smallish cultivar, 3-4' tall with slightly arching maroon leaves. A great choice for a containerized specimen as well as out in the garden! Not to be confused with Phormium tenax 'Rubrum' (the 6-8' monster)… Sun to light shade, decent drainage, do not plant too deep! Deer resistant. Hardy to about 20 degrees (ours have been root hardy into the teens, but slow to recover).

Gardening facts about Phormium tenax 'Rubrum' plant

How to Grow Phormium tenax 'Rubrum'

  • Sun Exposure

    • sun - bright shade
  • Water Needs

    • even moisture - occasional
  • Special Situation

    • seaside / salt tolerant
  • Soil Needs

    • well-drained
    • rich

Features

  • Foliage Color

    • burgundy
  • Flower Season

    • summer
  • Flower Color

    • burgundy
  • Foliage Season

    • evergreen
  • Wildlife

    • deer resistant
Mailing List
Sign Up for updates on new plant arrivals and deals

© 2010—2024 Plant Lust, LLC All Rights Reserved