Phormium tenax ‘Golden Ray’ – A Bold Architectural Plant with Striking Colour

Phormium tenax ‘Golden Ray’, commonly called the New Zealand Flax, is an eye-catching evergreen perennial known for its bold, upright leaves striped with green and golden-yellow. This dramatic foliage plant adds a strong architectural presence to gardens, whether planted as a specimen feature, in borders, or in large containers.

With its tall, sword-like leaves and clumping habit, ‘Golden Ray’ provides instant structure and year-round colour. In summer, mature plants may produce tall flower spikes with tubular blooms, which are particularly attractive to bees and pollinators. Its toughness and exotic appearance make it a favourite for coastal gardens, contemporary landscapes, and anywhere that bold design is desired.

General Information

Native to New Zealand, Phormium tenax has been widely cultivated in Europe for its ornamental qualities and resilience. The ‘Golden Ray’ variety is especially valued for its vibrant, variegated foliage.

• Growth habit: Upright, clump-forming perennial with an architectural look

• Height & spread: Typically 1.5–2m tall and up to 1.5m wide

• Foliage: Long, sword-shaped leaves striped with green and golden-yellow, evergreen year-round

• Flowers: On mature plants, tall stalks with tubular flowers may appear in summer, attracting pollinators

• Position: Prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade

• Hardiness: Generally hardy, though young plants benefit from winter protection in colder regions

• Soil: Grows well in fertile, well-drained soil; tolerates dry and coastal conditions

• Uses: Ideal as a specimen plant, in architectural groupings, or in large patio containers

Its bold form and bright colouring make it a natural choice for modern gardens or to provide contrast in mixed planting schemes.

Care Guide

Phormium tenax ‘Golden Ray’ is easy to grow, with minimal maintenance required once established.

Planting

• Plant in full sun for best colour and growth.

• Choose well-drained soil; add grit if planting in heavy clay.

• Dig a wide hole, set the root ball at soil level, and firm in well.

• Mulch around the base to help conserve moisture.

Watering & Feeding

• Water regularly during the first growing season until established.

• Once mature, it is drought-tolerant and needs little watering.

• Container-grown plants require more frequent watering.

• Apply a general fertiliser in spring to encourage lush growth.

Pruning & Maintenance

• Remove old, damaged, or dead leaves by cutting them at the base.

• Tidy in spring before new growth starts.

• If flowers appear, cut back stalks after they fade to keep the plant neat.

Protection

• Fully hardy in mild regions but may need winter protection in colder areas.

• In harsh winters, wrap the base with fleece or mulch heavily for protection.

• Avoid waterlogged conditions in winter, which may damage roots.

Why Choose Phormium ‘Golden Ray’?

This striking ornamental perennial combines toughness with dramatic looks, making it an excellent choice for gardeners who want bold colour and structure with minimal fuss.

• Year-round interest: Evergreen golden-striped foliage

• Architectural impact: Strong, upright form for modern or exotic gardens

• Low-maintenance: Drought-tolerant and easy to care for

• Versatile use: Perfect in borders, as a specimen, or in containers

• Wildlife-friendly: Summer flowers attract bees and pollinators

Phormium tenax ‘Golden Ray’ is the perfect choice for adding drama, colour, and structure to gardens of all styles. Whether in a contemporary border, a coastal planting scheme, or a statement container, it provides long-lasting beauty with minimal care.

• Size
  7.5lt

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

Standard Delivery is FREE on orders over €250*

All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via Fastway Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

Live Plants Delivery

Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

Click & Collect

Can’t wait for delivery? Why not try our FREE Click & Collect service? Simply make your purchase online and collect it from our store located in Croagh Co. Limerick. Our staff will contact you by phone when your order is ready for collection (Please allow 24 hours minimum). When collecting your item, call the store on 069-64084. We will then load into your car as required. This service is available in-store 9am – 6pm Monday – Saturday (No collections on Sundays)

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