Common Name:

General Information

Astelia grandis is an evergreen, perennial plant forming a dense cluster of stiff, arched, spear-shaped leaves up to 2 metres tall.
The plant was traditionally harvested from the wild as a source of food and fibre. It is grown as an ornamental in gardens.

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

Range

New Zealand - North and South Islands

Habitat

Swampy, ± peaty soils from lowland to montane areas in North and South Islands, south to latitude 45°s[]

Properties

Edibility Rating
Other Uses Rating
Habit	Perennial
Height	1.50 m
Self-fertile	No
Cultivation Status	Ornamental, Wild

Cultivation Details

Astelia grandis is not very cold-hardy. It tolerates temperatures down to about -3°c, and possibly even lower for short periods[]. It can succeed outdoors in mild-winter areas of the temperate zone
Species in this genus generally require a damp humus-rich fertile soil in sun or semi-shade, sheltered from cold drying winds[]. Prefers a moist soil and a cool position[].
A dioecious species - both male and female forms must be grown if fruit and seed are required.

Edible Uses

Fruit - raw. Sweet, fleshy and juicy, it is pleasant to eat[]. The orange-coloured fruit is about 10mm in diameter[].

Medicinal

None known

Other Uses

A soft brown fibre is obtained from the leaves. It has a variety of uses[, ].

Propagation

Seed - sow late winter in a greenhouse. Germination can be very slow, sometimes taking more than 12 months.
When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in light shade for at least the first winter in a greenhouse. Plant out in late spring or early summer once they are 15cm or more tall.
Division in spring[].