Botanical name:

Astelia fragrans

Common name(s):

Bush Flax, kakaha, Bush Lilly

About:

Kakaha, which is widely recognised as the most common astelia species found in New Zealand, thrives in a range of habitats from sea level to elevations of approximately 900m. Astelia fragrans is characterised by its long, sword-like green leaves, which can sometimes exhibit midribs that are notably red. In the centre of this distinctive plant, clumps of green flowers are produced, typically blooming between the months of October and November, adding to the beauty of the landscape during this time.

Natural habitat:

Kakaha occupies a range of moist sites. It can be found on forest floors, cliffs, rock bluffs, lakeshore scarps and stream margins, as well as in swamps. Best in sheltered semi-shade.

Growing environment:

Sand, Sun, Drought, Shade, Salt, Wetland, Wind, Coastal & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

Commonly found throughout NZ.

Height: 1.5m

Flowering:

October – November with a green or yellow coloured flower/s

Fruiting:

December – March with orange berries.

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant, Riparian plantings, Forests, Pioneer Plantings & containers.

How to grow:

Easily grown from fresh seed.

** Seed germinates without pre treatment. 4 weeks cold stratification will help speed this up though