Phormium 'Surfer'
Surfer N.Z. Flax
Description
Phormium 'Surfer' is an evergreen perennial that reaches 2'-3' tall and 1'-2' wide. Sword shaped leaves are twisted and olive green with reddish brown margins. Red flowers shoot straight up, 3'-4' tall, in spring and summer. This plant is grown more for the foliage than the flower. It prefers full to partial sun and can tolerate ocean conditions. It needs regular watering in hot inland areas. Phormium looks great in containers with colored annuals or cascading groundcovers.
Plant Type
Perennial
Height Range
1-3'
Flower Color
Red
Flower Season
Spring, Summer
Leaf Color
Green, Purple, Red, Variegated
Bark Color
n/a
Fruit Color
n/a
Fruit Season
n/a
Sun
Full, Half
Water
Medium, Extra in Summer
Growth Rate
Moderate
Soil Type
Sandy, Loam, Unparticular
Soil Condition
Average
Soil pH
Neutral
Adverse Factors
n/a
Design Styles
Meadow, Mediterranean, Ranch, Seascape, Spanish, Tropical
Accenting Features
Unusual Foliage
Seasonal Interest
Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
Location Uses
Entry, Foundation, Patio, Park, Parking Lot, Raised Planter, Swimming Pool, With Rocks
Special Uses
Container, Filler, Mass Planting
Attracts Wildlife
n/a
Water Saving Tip:
Mulching and adding compost to soil can minimize evaporation and help soil absorb and store water.