Perching lily, Kowharawhara
Astelia solandri
Family: Asteliaceae
What it is like
A plant that keeps growing from year to year. It grows attached to trees. It is grass-like. Male and female flowers are on separate plants. The male flowering shoots are about 30 cm long. The female ones are shorter. The flowers have a sweet scent. The fruit are berries. They are edible.
There are about 25 Astelia species.
Where it is found
It grows in New Zealand up to 1000 m altitude. It is best with humus-rich moist soils. It suits a shaded position.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia, New Zealand (country/location of origin)
How it is used for food
The fruit are eaten.
Edible parts
Fruit
How it is grown
Plants can be grown by seeds.
The fruit take about 12 months to mature.