Phormium tenax ‘Yellow Wave’ (Variegated Mountain Flax)

Phormium tenax ‘Yellow Wave’ is an evergreen perennial with curved, sword shaped green leaves. This is a smaller and softer Phormium variety, less imposing in bulk but still packing a colourful punch. The strapping foliage is emerald green with a pronounced striping in canary yellow, growing steadily to create a clump that can reach 2.5m x 2.5m over 10 years or so.

Where we plant Phormiums, they’re successful. We know what we’re doing. Our garden designers have never once wavered from their conviction that planting schemes with Phormiums don’t have to look like a lumpy roundabout in Plymouth. We use all Phormiums to their highest potential, placing them with expertise to introduce exoticism and textural contrast to our planting plans. Bladelike, arching leaves combined with striking colours really bring a mixed planting design to life, and for a winter focal point against evergreens these really are outstanding.

Will grow well in a pot as long as the pot is big, making it a good choice for patios and courtyards, too. Here its big puff of exuberant foliage can be admired from all sides.

Position in full sun to dappled shade, happiest on moist but well drained soil.

N.B. When clipping several plants with the same tool, have a bucket containing a 5% bleach solution and swish your blades around for 30 seconds between plants to sterilise them. This will help avoid the chance of cross contamination of disease.

As with all woody plants, plant high, exposing as much of the taper at the base of the trunk as possible. Allowing soil to accumulate around the base of a tree can be fatal. Keep very well watered when first planted.