Phormium cookianum - wharariki (Mountain Flax) is a hardy, evergreen perennial native to New Zealand. It typically grows to a height of 1.5 to 2 meters, with long, narrow, arching leaves that range in width from 1 to 2.5 cm. The leaves are green to grey-green in color and have a soft, leathery texture, making them quite attractive in gardens or landscapes. This flax variety thrives in well-drained soils and prefers full sun to partial shade. It is highly tolerant of wind, frost, and salt, making it ideal for coastal and mountainous regions. Phormium cookianum also produces tall, slender flower spikes, which are typically yellow to red, attracting a range of birds such as tui and bellbirds. This plant requires minimal maintenance and can be a striking addition to both natural and cultivated landscapes.