Bush flax, Kakaha, Mountain astelia
Astelia nervosa
Family: Asteliaceae
What it is like
A clump forming plant. It grows 0.9-2 m high and spreads 1.5 m wide. The leaves are long and grass like. They can be reddish, silver or green. The leaves are 0.6-2 m long. The fruit are berries which sit in little cups.
There are about 25 Astelia species.
Where it is found
It is best in moist, swampy soils. It needs a sheltered partly shaded position. It suits hardiness zones 8-10.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia, New Zealand (country/location of origin)
How it is used for food
Edible parts
Fruit, berries
How it is grown
Plants can be grown by division or seed.