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NZ Plants
Phormium tenax, harakeke
Family: Hemerocallidaceae
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Plants
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Base of leaves
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Leaf, upper surface
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Leaf, lower surface
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Flowers are in groups along an elongated stem
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A single group of flowers
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Opening flower with emerging stamens and style
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Formation of fruits
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Mature fruit, release of seeds
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Phormium tenax is a tall, perennial plant spreading by stout horizontal stems (rhizomes). Leaves are crowded in two opposite fan-like rows and are stiff and erect at the base and flexuous or pendulous in upper portions. Leaves have a strong midvein and numerous smaller minor veins strengthened by tough fibre bundles. Flowers are bright orange-red, arranged in groups along a tall erect stem. Sometimes placed in the Xanthorrhoeaceae.
An endemic plant favouring wetlands but also tolerating dry lowland and coastal sites.
There are two species of Phormium in New Zealand and both are endemic: (1) Phormium tenax (harakeke or New Zealand flax) and (2), P. cookianum (wharariki or mountain flax). Both are used by the Māori, however harakeke is more widespread and has superior qualities; sixty named varieties, each with a preferred use, are recognised.
Preparation of leaves for fibre (muka)
Preparation of leaves for plaiting
Vegetative characteristics |
Reproductive characteristics |
Plant form: perennial herb up to 5 m |
Flower symmetry: asymmetric |
Leaf form: undivided, linear, tapering |
Flower size: up to 50 mm long |
Leaf size: 1-3 m long |
Sepals, petals: 6, red |
Leaf arrangement: opposite |
Sexuality: bisexual |
Leaf attachment: |
Stamens: 6 |
Leaf margin: smooth |
Ovary: below tepals |
Leaf surface: smooth |
Fruit: dry, capsule |
