Phormiums in Pots
My coloured hybrid Phormiums often start off in pots. As long as they're summer-watered and don't get too hot, they enjoy a short stay therein. But usually after three years the message is clear - please move us into the proper garden! Please!
Phormiums in Pots
But this is just fine. It's an excuse to buy a new youngster to fill that vacant pot, hee hee.
What pot?
I usually use large terracotta pots. But coloured, glazed ones certainly add interest. This glazed green pot came already planted with a New Zealand Phormium hybrid. The colour combination just appealed to me. This Phormium is a variety called 'Evening Glow'. It has the richest red leaves, and certainly glows in the daytime as well.
Phormium Evening Glow
New Zealand Phormiums (AKA flaxes) look great in pots, and a lot of mine start out their garden life this way. When they grow a bit, rather than repot them I find a space in the garden. And then, of course, I can buy a new plant. The larger the Phormium, the larger the pot into which it goes. Makes sense, yes? Though the species Phormium tenaxes are just a bit large, and too rough looking. But with coloured hybrids, the colour conscious gardener can create some lovely combinations, subdued or bright.
Hybrid Phormium Blondie
Phormiums in pots will need to be kept well trimmed (that is, the dead leaves removed) and reasonably well watered to look their best. Planting a fountain shaped flax in a pot can immediately give height interest, when placed in the middle of a garden border.
Blondie Phormium in Spring