Saturday 1 February 2014

Plant of Interest

Astelia chathamica
Family: ASTELIACEAE

Origin: New Zealand

Size: 1-2m(3-6ft) x 1-2m(3-6ft) 

Cultivation: Prefers moist soil, in sun-pt shade. Not fully hardy, may require winter protection. Hardy to about -5/-10ºC (15-20°F

Observations: This plant first caught my attention when I walked by it one day, stopping to see why it was covered in white paint? I then discovered that it wasn't paint at all, but the natural coloration of the foliage! This beautiful architectural plant has long sword-shaped leaves which are light green with a silvery-white sheen. It can easily hold its own, but also makes a fantastic companion plant. In colder climates it could make a nice container plant. 

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