Plant Database
Black Adder New Zealand Flax
Phormium ‘Black Adder’
Black Adder New Zealand Flax is a strikingly dark cultivar that adds depth and drama to the landscape. Its very upright, rigid leaves are an intense, deep burgundy that appears almost black in certain lights. This creates a powerful vertical element and a superb backdrop for lighter-colored plants. Slower growing and highly architectural, it makes a bold statement in modern gardens, containers, or as a dark focal point in mixed borders.
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Nearly Black, Upright Foliage: Features exceptionally dark, wine-red to nearly black leaves that grow in a very upright, rigid clump.
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Strong Architectural Presence: Its vertical form and dark color make it a commanding focal point or exclamation mark in the garden.
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Slow-Growing & Long-Lived: A durable plant that establishes well and provides a permanent structural element.
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Sun-Loving for Darkest Color: Develops the deepest, most intense black-red coloration in full sun.
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Perfect for Modern & Contrast Gardens: Ideal for minimalist designs, dark foliage themes, or pairing with silver, white, or bright chartreuse plants.