Astelia
( ass - TEEL - ee - uh )
At-A-Glance InformationThis genus of evergreen perennial is grown for its silky foliage, making great contrast to other commonly planted low grasses and mounding plants. They need full sun or partial shade and moderate water, and are wonderful in container plantings or in perennial border gardens. Inconspicuous flowers bloom in springtime on female plants only, and are followed by showy berries. Most commonly grown Astelia are native to New Zealand.
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Astelia Species and Varietals
The genus Astelia is a member of the plant family Asteliaceae, and includes The best growing zones for Astelia are 5, 6, 14-17 and 19-24. For more information, see the descriptions below. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.
Astelia alpina (Pineapple Grass, Silver Astelia, Perching Lily) These plants are perennials which grow in dense clusters called mats, typically in alpine bogs. They are native to New South Wales and Victoria, and were first formally described by Robert Brown. Foliage is silvery, and is similar in appearance to that of a pineapple plant. |
Astelia chathamica (Astelia nervosa chathamica) (Silver Leaf, Chatham Islands Kakaha, Maori Flax, Silver Spear) This variety of Astelia grows to 4 feet tall and 6 feet wide, with shiny, silvery leaves and cream colored inconspicuous flowers that bloom in clusters 20 inches tall. Berries that follow blooms are orange. |
Astelia fragrans (Bush Lily, Bush Flax, Kakah) Native to New Zealand, this species produces long, sword-like leaves with reddish midribs. Between October and November in the plant's native range, they produce clumps of green flowers. Yellow-orange fruits follow in summertime. The plant was first formally described by William Colenso in 1883. |
Astelia nervosa (Mountain Astelia) This variable species typically grows 2-3 feet tall and twice as wide with foliage that is silver-green on top and bronze with green midribs underneath. Leaves can reach 7 feet long. Flowers are greenish-yellow to bronzey purple in color, and bloom on tall stalks, with orange berries following the bloom. Variety 'Wetland' (pictured right) is more compact than the species, and has a reddish tint on the normally silver-green foliage. These do well in light shade. |
Caring for Astelia
Propagation
Problems and Pests
Gallery
Videos
A video all about growing camellias successfully
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Propagating camellias
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Resources
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page 175, Astelia
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