Phormium 'Platt's Black'
New Zealand flax
With their arching, strappy, sword-shaped leaves, phormiums make a dramatic statement in the garden. Originating from New Zealand, where their fibre has traditionally been used in the same way as hemp or sisal, they are versatile evergreen plants that tolerate a range of conditions and look at home in a variety of different planting schemes. They have become increasingly popular in recent years, with more and more colourful varieties being introduced. Phormium 'Platt's Black' is a wonderful introduction with sword-like, deep purple-black leaves. It makes a stunning centrepiece in a container, or an architectural specimen plant in the border, providing a fabulous contrast for silvers, pinks, blues and whites. In hot summers, a spike of tubular, red flowers will shoot up from the centre, followed by sturdy seed-heads.
How to care for Phormium Platt's Black:
Plant in a sunny or lightly shaded spot with soil that drains well, adding grit and compost if your ground is heavy. In pots, use a sturdy container with drainage holes and a free-draining mix such as loam-based compost with added grit, and water regularly through summer.
Protect plants in winter with a thick mulch of well-rotted organic matter and cover the crown with horticultural fleece during hard frosts. As growth picks up in late spring, remove any dead or damaged leaves to keep the plant tidy and encourage fresh new foliage.
Protect plants in winter with a thick mulch of well-rotted organic matter and cover the crown with horticultural fleece during hard frosts. As growth picks up in late spring, remove any dead or damaged leaves to keep the plant tidy and encourage fresh new foliage.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
0.9m
Eventual spread:
0.6m
Position:
Full sun
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Borderline hardy (will need protection in winter in colder areas)
2 litre pot
was £36.99
now £33.29
In stock
(shipped within 2-3 working days)
(shipped within 2-3 working days)
1
