Phormium tenax ‘Duet’ Care Guide

Phormium tenax ‘Duet’ is a compact, variegated variety of New Zealand Flax, prized for its striking green and cream-striped foliage. This evergreen perennial adds bold architectural structure to gardens, making it perfect for borders, coastal landscapes, and containers. With its drought tolerance and low maintenance needs, Phormium tenax ‘Duet’ is an excellent choice for modern and traditional gardens alike.

Planting and Positioning

• Best Location: Prefers a sunny to partially shaded position but thrives best in full sun for optimal foliage colour.

• Soil Requirements:

  • Well-drained soil is essential; grows well in loamy, sandy, or even clay soils if drainage is improved.

  • Tolerates coastal and windy conditions, making it ideal for exposed gardens.

• Spacing: Plant 60–90cm apart to allow enough space for the foliage to spread.

• Container Growth: A great option for large pots—use a free-draining soil mix and ensure adequate watering in dry weather.

Watering and Feeding

• Watering Needs:

  • Once established, Phormium tenax ‘Duet’ is drought tolerant, requiring minimal watering.

  • Water regularly during the first year to help establish a strong root system.

  • In prolonged dry periods, deep watering once a week will keep the plant healthy.

• Feeding:

  • Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer in spring to encourage fresh growth.

  • A slow-release fertilizer in early summer can enhance leaf colour and vitality.

• Mulching:

  • Apply a layer of organic mulch (bark chips or compost) around the base in spring to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pruning and Maintenance

• Foliage Care:

  • Phormium tenax ‘Duet’ is evergreen, so it requires minimal pruning.

  • Remove any dead, damaged, or older leaves at the base to maintain a tidy appearance.

• Dividing & Propagation:

  • Can be divided every 3–5 years to create new plants—best done in early spring.

• Winter Protection:

  • Hardy in most areas but may need protection in severe frost.

  • Apply a thick mulch layer around the base in colder regions.

  • Container-grown plants should be moved to a sheltered spot in winter.

• Pests and Diseases:

  • Generally pest-free but watch for aphids and mealybugs.

  • Ensure good airflow around plants to prevent fungal issues in humid conditions.

Key Benefits of Phormium tenax ‘Duet’

✔ Year-Round Interest – Attractive evergreen foliage provides colour in all seasons.
✔ Drought & Wind Tolerant – Ideal for low-maintenance, coastal, and exposed gardens.
✔ Compact Size – Perfect for small gardens, containers, and mixed borders.
✔ Low Maintenance – Minimal care required once established.
✔ Architectural Appeal – Adds structure and contrast to planting schemes.

With its elegant variegated leaves, strong resilience, and striking form, Phormium tenax ‘Duet’ is a fantastic choice for adding texture and interest to any garden. Whether planted in borders, as a focal point, or in pots, this hardy evergreen will thrive with minimal effort

• Size
  7.5lt

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

Standard Delivery is FREE on orders over €250*

All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via Fastway Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

Live Plants Delivery

Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

Click & Collect

Can’t wait for delivery? Why not try our FREE Click & Collect service? Simply make your purchase online and collect it from our store located in Croagh Co. Limerick. Our staff will contact you by phone when your order is ready for collection (Please allow 24 hours minimum). When collecting your item, call the store on 069-64084. We will then load into your car as required. This service is available in-store 9am – 6pm Monday – Saturday (No collections on Sundays)

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If you have any further questions about the online order payment please contact us via ­069 640 84 or mail.