Articles

Dianella for Erosion Control in New Zealand

Erosion is an entropic force on our urban landscapes. Unchecked, it causes our most valuable resource, our topsoil, to slowly disappear day after day, year after year. For specifiers seeking robust, low-maintenance planting solutions to stop erosion in its tracks and begin building soil health, Dianella offers a proven combination of soil-stabilising performance and aesthetic […]

Plant Callistemon

Should I Plant Callistemon in My NZ Garden?

When it comes to adding both beauty and functionality to a garden, Callistemon, or Bottlebrush, is a genus worth considering. These striking, hardy plants boast vibrant flower displays and adaptability, making them a popular choice for many gardeners. However, is this iconic Australian plant truly a good fit for your New Zealand garden? Below, we’ll […]

Best Medium-Sized Groundcovers

Best Medium-Sized Groundcovers in NZ

Introduction Are you looking for the perfect mid-sized groundcover? Something a bit too dense to walk through, but something that won’t block the view. This article was written just for you, and will cover some of the most resilient, ornamental, and low-maintenance medium-sized strappy and shrubby groundcovers available in New Zealand. Little Jess™ Dianella for […]

Phormium

Is Phormium a Grass? A Guide for New Zealand Gardeners

New Zealand flax’s long, strap-shaped leaves and clumping growth habit might have you wondering, is Phormium a grass? The short answer is no. Though its appearance can be deceiving, Phormium is not a grass. Below, we’ll explain where Phormium fits in the plant world, why it’s confused with grasses, and list a couple of short, compact varieties […]

Just Right

Is Liriope a Grass?

At some point in your life, you may have come across Liriope and wondered, is Liriope a grass? Known for its clumps of strappy green leaves, it’s an easy mistake to make. However, Liriope is not a grass. Below, I’ll explain why it’s often confused with grasses, where it actually belongs in the plant world, and we’ll […]

Is Dianella a Grass

Is Dianella a Grass?

One might wonder, is Dianella a grass? Despite its slender, grass-like leaves, Dianella is not a grass. Below, we’ll uncover where Dianella fits in the plant world, and some of the toughest varieties that just about anyone can keep alone. Little Jess™ Dianella caerulea ‘DCMP01’. http://ozbreed.co.nz/plant-ranges/strappy-leaf-plants/little-jess-dianella/ Blaze™ Dianella tasmanica ‘NPW2’. http://ozbreed.co.nz/plant-ranges/strappy-leaf-plants/blaze-dianella/ What is Dianella? Dianella, sometimes called “flax lily,” is a […]

Hackable Plants for Brushcutter Pruning- A Guide to Responsible Plant Maintenance

Using a brushcutter with a blade head attachment can be a powerful way to manage thick, fibrous vegetation in your garden. However, not all plants respond equally to this type of vigorous pruning. To keep your garden thriving, it’s essential to understand not only the type of plant you’re cutting back but also the specific […]

Plant Specification Tips

Plant Specification Tips for Low Maintenance Landscapes

Do you want to select plants that make your life easier, instead of harder? Whether you’re a landscape architect looking for a few low-maintenance plants to add to your palette, or you’re a home gardener who’s never designed a garden in their life, this article was written for you. We’ll start by learning a few […]