Mountain flax

Phormiums are New Zealand evergreen plants, and a striking element in any hot border scheme. They make bold clumps of long, often gorgeously coloured, sword-shaped leaves, with tall, open flower-spikes on mature plants. P. cookianum is one of two common species, the source of many fine varieties such as 'Cream Delight', the leaves of which are marked with a broad central cream band, and narrower cream stripes towards the edges. Protect from frost and drought until established. The Royal Horticultural Society has given it its prestigious Award of Garden Merit (AGM).