(image from google images)

Common name: New Zealand flax

Size, form, texture: huge clumps, height 1-6 ft, spread 1-3 ft, attractive and unusual aesthetic.

Hardiness, origin, native ecology: Native to New Zealand, evergreen, fibrous, when dormant sensitive to excess moisture, bird pollinated flowers, attracts hummingbirds, needs sun and good drainage, increased irrigation in summer increases size of foliage, temporary bedding plant in cooler parts of Vancouver, zone 9 plant likes dry well drained area, needs sun,

Bud, foliage, flower and fruit characteristics: foliage comes in many colours ranging from green to darker green, awesome flower stalks 4-5 m tall, rarely flowers, very attractive architectural foliage.

Cultural and maintenance requirements and appropriate uses in the landscape: Nice plant at waters edge, also very attractive in pots or containers for patios or decks, greenhouse or houseplant, attractive around fountains or water features.