ASTELIA

Clump forming Astelia ‘Red Devil’ is a natural selection of Astelia nivicola, a native species endemic to New Zealand that can be found growing in low lying forest areas, or higher up the mountains, cavorting amongst the snow tussocks. It’s a tough character, given the right conditions: sun or semi-shade and free-draining, consistently damp, but not wet soil. Foliage colours up best in a fully exposed, sunny position, where it will reward you with beautiful reddish-bronze hues, that intensify in colour over the winter months. In warmer climates, ’Red Devil’ much prefers the coolest area of the garden, shaded from midday and hot afternoon sun. Plant as colour and textural contrast in garden borders (looks fabulous amongst bronze and orange grasses), or large containers placed strategically as accents around the garden and outdoor living areas. Evergreen.

From a distance, this selection of New Zealand native Astelia might trick you into thinking it is a NZ flax, due to its stiff, upright habit. But on closer inspection, the rich, brownish-red leaves of Astelia ‘Red Shadow’ presents with a soft, furry tomentum, typical of Astelia foliage. ‘Red Shadow’ forms a spectacular, dense, tuft, perfect to inject visual drama and textural contrast into the landscape, either in garden borders or containers. ‘Red Shadow’ also lends itself well to contemporary and minimalist landscapes, especially when teamed with grasses or totally contrasting rounded foliage. Plant in full sun, to bring out the best colour, and friable, well-drained soil, that is not too rich. Evergreen.

Astelia 'Silver Shadow' is the most silver Astelia to date. This compact growing selection shows off its metallic silver, slightly arching, leaves throughout the year. 'Silver Shadow' creates a stunning architectural feature plant in a raised patio container, or striking colour and textural contrast in garden borders. Astelia 'Silver Shadow' tolerates harsh coastal winds and is quite drought resistant once established, but does benefit from occasional deep watering to maintain its handsome foliage. It is intolerant of extreme heat and humidity, preferring an open area in full sun with good air flow. Evergreen.