Wharariki

Phormium cookianum

Physical Characteristics

Phormium cookianum is an evergreen Perennial growing to 1.2 m (4ft) by 0.3 m (1ft in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8 and is not frost tender. It is in leaf all year, in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist or wet soil. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Distribution

New Zealand. Naturalized in Britain on the Scilly Isles.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Bog Garden; Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Nectar Edible Uses: Coffee Gum Gum The roasted seed is used as a coffee substitute[173]. An edible nectar is obtained from the flowers[173]. An edible gum is obtained from the base of the leaves[173].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

The root is highly purgative[173].