Astelia chathamica

Taxonomy

Astelia chathamica, also known as the Chatham Islands kakaha, Maori flax, or silver spear, is a recently named flowering plant belonging to the Asteliaceae family. This evergreen perennial from the Chatham Islands in New Zealand grows up to 1.2 m (4 ft) tall and forms a large clump of sword-shaped, silver-green leaves. The plant produces small green flowers and, on female plants, orange berries. It thrives in partial shade and requires fertile, well-drained soil with moderate water. While it can withstand temperatures as low as −3 °C (27 °F), the foliage may be susceptible to frost damage, necessitating winter protection in colder areas. In the UK, Astelia chathamica has been awarded the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.

How to care for Astelia chathamica

Difficulty

Astelia chathamica presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Astelia chathamica prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Dormancy

During the wintertime, it's common for Astelia chathamica to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.


More info:
Wikipedia