phormium

/ ˈfɔːmɪəm /

noun

1. any plant of the New Zealand bulbous genus Phormium, with leathery evergreen leaves and red or yellow flowers in panicles

Word History and Origins

Origin of phormium¹

New Latin, from Greek phormos a basket (from a use for the fibres)

Example Sentences

You may need to replant that hebe or phormium every few years.

From Seattle Times

That explains her affection for exceptions like Euphorbia tirucalli Sticks on Fire or the upright Senecio cylindricus, as well as non-succulent partners like Phormium that can handle lean, drier conditions.

From Seattle Times

There are other plants in the truck: Pink stripe phormium.

From Literature

Phormium, for′mi-um, n. a genus of New Zealand plants of the lily family—New Zealand flax or flax-lily.

From Project Gutenberg

Impressed with the importance of developing the cultivation of Phormium tenax, the Colonial Government has offered a reward of �1500 for the invention of such a machine as shall bark the native flax, and prepare it for and make it saleable in the European market.

From Project Gutenberg