Plant in full sun to light shade. Can tolerate fairly dry conditions (coastal) but looks best with occasional to regular irrigation. Cold hardy to 15-20° F and possibly root hardy below these temperatures but with severe foliage damage unless protected. A stunning and color stable large flax with red and pink highlights.

This cultivar was introduced by Mr. B. Haggo of Dawn Nurseries in Auckland, New Zealand. We think it is one of the best and the darkest red of the larger upright flax cultivars. Smaller and darker than 'Sundowner', more upright and redder than 'Maori Chief'. One of our favorites! 

Information displayed on this page about Phormium 'Guardsman' is based on our research conducted about this plant in our nursery library as well as from information provided by reliable online resources. We also include our own observations made about it as it has grown in the nursery gardens and other gardens visited, as well how the crops of this plant performed in the containers in our nursery field. We will also include comments received from others and welcome hearing from anyone who has information about this plant, particularly if it includes cultural information aiding others to better grow it.