Can You Eat New Zealand Flax Seeds? - Plant Care Guide

No, New Zealand Flax seeds (from Phormium tenax or Phormium cookianum) are generally not eaten by humans and are not considered a culinary or nutritional food source. While the plant itself has historical uses, its seeds are not commonly consumed and are not the "flax seeds" (Linum usitatissimum) that are widely known for their nutritional benefits. It's important to distinguish between these two very different plants.

What is New Zealand Flax and What are its Main Characteristics?

New Zealand Flax refers to two closely related species of perennial plants native to New Zealand: Phormium tenax (Harakeke) and Phormium cookianum (Wharariki or Mountain Flax). Despite the common name, they are not true flax (Linum usitatissimum) but are striking, large, grass-like plants highly valued for their ornamental appeal and historical utility.

Here are the main characteristics of New Zealand Flax:

• Growth Habit:
  • Forms a dense clump of stiff, sword-shaped leaves growing directly from the base.
  • Can range significantly in size: P. tenax is generally larger, growing up to 6-10 feet (1.8-3 meters) tall and wide, while P. cookianum is often smaller and more graceful.
• Leaves:
  • Long, upright, sword-like, strap-shaped leaves.
  • Colors vary widely depending on the species and cultivar, ranging from deep green to bronze, purple, reddish, and variegated (striped) forms with shades of cream, pink, or yellow.
  • Leaves are very tough and fibrous.
• Flowers:
  • Produces tall, stout flower stalks that can reach up to 15 feet (4.5 meters) above the foliage, especially on P. tenax.
  • Flowers are tubular, typically reddish-orange or yellow, and rich in nectar. They are very attractive to nectar-feeding birds (like tūī and bellbirds in New Zealand).
  • Blooms primarily in summer.
• Fruit (Seed Pods/Capsules):
  • After flowering, the plant produces distinctive, hard, dark brown or black seed capsules (or pods).
  • P. tenax typically has upright, pointed capsules, while P. cookianum has drooping, twisted capsules.
  • These capsules contain numerous small, flat, shiny, black seeds.
• Hardiness:
  • Generally hardy in USDA Zones 8-11, thriving in mild, coastal climates. Some cultivars have extended hardiness.
• Historical Uses (Māori Culture):
  • Extremely important in traditional Māori culture, where its strong fibers (muka) were extensively used for weaving cloaks, mats, baskets, ropes, fishing nets, and building materials. The nectar was also collected.
• Ornamental Value:
  • Widely cultivated globally as an architectural and low-maintenance ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes, prized for its dramatic form and colorful foliage.

New Zealand Flax is a visually striking and historically significant plant, but its "seeds" are part of its reproductive cycle, not typically its edible component.

What are the Seeds of New Zealand Flax Like?

The seeds of New Zealand Flax (Phormium tenax and Phormium cookianum) are contained within distinctive, hard, dark-colored seed capsules (often called pods) that form after the flowers are pollinated. These seeds are quite different from the small, oval, golden or brown seeds of culinary flax.

Here's what the seeds of New Zealand Flax are like:

• Capsule/Pod Appearance:
  • Phormium tenax produces upright, stiff, pointed capsules, typically 3-5 inches (7-12 cm) long.
  • Phormium cookianum produces drooping, often twisted capsules, also 3-5 inches (7-12 cm) long.
  • The capsules are initially green and mature to a dry, hard, dark brown or black color, persisting on the plant for many months.
• Seed Appearance:
  • Inside the dry capsules, you'll find numerous small, flat, and irregularly shaped seeds.
  • They are typically shiny black in color, sometimes with a metallic sheen.
  • Each seed is generally about 3-5 mm (0.12-0.2 inches) in length.
• Texture: The seeds are hard and not particularly oily or mucilaginous (slimy) like culinary flax seeds when exposed to water.
• Quantity: Each capsule can contain many individual seeds.
• Purpose: Their primary biological purpose is for the sexual reproduction and dispersal of the New Zealand Flax plant, not as a food source for humans.

While visually interesting, these seeds are tough, small, and not easily processed or consumed, which contributes to their lack of culinary use.

What is Culinary Flax Seed and How is it Different?

Culinary flax seed refers to the seeds of the plant Linum usitatissimum, also known as common flax or linseed. These are the "flax seeds" widely consumed by humans for their nutritional benefits and used in various food products. It is a completely different plant from New Zealand Flax (Phormium tenax or Phormium cookianum).

Here's how culinary flax seed is different:

The critical distinction is the nutritional and edible quality of culinary flax seeds, which are entirely absent in New Zealand Flax seeds. Confusing the two can lead to disappointment or, in some cases, potential unknown side effects.

Why are New Zealand Flax Seeds Not Eaten by Humans?

New Zealand Flax seeds are generally not eaten by humans primarily because they are not recognized as an edible food source, lack known nutritional benefits comparable to culinary flax, and their composition may not be suitable for digestion. There's no established history of their consumption.

Here's a breakdown of the reasons:

1. No Known Culinary Tradition: Unlike true flax seeds (Linum usitatissimum), which have been consumed by humans for millennia, there is no widespread culinary tradition or historical record of Phormium seeds being eaten by humans, either by Māori people or other cultures. Māori utilized other parts of the plant extensively (fibers, nectar), but not the seeds as food.
2. Lack of Nutritional Research/Data: There is a dearth of scientific research or nutritional analysis specifically on the edibility and nutritional profile of New Zealand Flax seeds for human consumption. Without such data, their safety and benefit are unknown.
3. Physical Characteristics:
   • Hard and Small: The seeds are relatively hard and small, making them difficult to chew and process to extract any potential nutrients.
   • Not Oily/Mucilaginous: They lack the oily, easily digestible texture of culinary flax seeds, and they do not produce the beneficial mucilage (gel) when soaked in water.
4. Potential Unknown Compounds: As with many plants not traditionally consumed, there's a possibility that the seeds might contain compounds that are not easily digestible or could potentially be irritating or toxic if ingested in larger quantities. Without scientific study, this risk is unknown.
5. Focus on Other Plant Parts: The primary value of New Zealand Flax throughout history and in modern use has been its extremely strong fibers and ornamental qualities, not its seeds.

Given the lack of culinary history, nutritional data, and potential unknown risks, New Zealand Flax seeds are simply not a part of the human diet. It is always safest to consume only plants and plant parts that are widely recognized as edible and safe.

Are There Any Toxic Parts of the New Zealand Flax Plant?

While the seeds of New Zealand Flax are generally not consumed, it's prudent to be aware that some parts of the Phormium plant (New Zealand Flax) are considered to contain mildly toxic compounds, particularly the sap. Although not severely poisonous, it's best to avoid ingestion.

Here's what is known about the plant's toxicity:

• Sap/Juice: The sap or juice within the leaves and stems of New Zealand Flax can be an irritant.
  • Skin Contact: Direct contact with the sap can cause skin irritation, redness, or a rash in sensitive individuals. Gardeners are often advised to wear gardening gloves when handling Phormium, especially when cutting the leaves, to prevent sap exposure.
  • Ingestion: If ingested, the sap or other plant parts can cause mild gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. This is generally not considered life-threatening, but it can be uncomfortable.
• Seeds: While not extensively studied for toxicity, given the mild irritant properties of the plant's sap and the lack of a history of consumption, it's reasonable to assume the seeds may also contain some of these compounds or be unpalatable.
• Risk to Pets: Pets (dogs, cats, horses) that chew on Phormium leaves might experience mild gastrointestinal irritation. The plant is listed as potentially toxic to pets by some veterinary resources.
• Māori Traditional Uses (with caution): Historically, Māori people did utilize parts of the plant. The nectar was gathered, and the gum from P. tenax was used for various medicinal purposes, including skin complaints and as a mild laxative. However, these traditional medicinal uses involved specific preparation and knowledge, and should not be interpreted as the plant being safe for general consumption.

In general, for garden owners, it's best to treat New Zealand Flax as an ornamental plant only and to exercise caution to prevent ingestion by humans (especially children) and pets, and to wear gloves during handling.

What Are the Traditional Uses of New Zealand Flax by Māori People?

New Zealand Flax (Harakeke and Wharariki) holds immense cultural and practical significance for the Māori people of New Zealand, who have traditionally utilized almost every part of the plant for a vast array of purposes. Its strong, versatile fibers made it one of their most important natural resources.

Here are the primary traditional uses of New Zealand Flax by Māori people:

1. Fiber (Muka): This is the most renowned use.
   • Weaving: The incredibly strong and durable fibers (muka) extracted from the leaves were used to weave a wide range of essential items:
     • Kākahu (cloaks): Intricately woven cloaks, often adorned with feathers, signifying status and warmth.
     • Kete (baskets): Baskets for carrying food, gathering, and storage.
     • Whāriki (mats): Floor mats for homes.
   • Cordage and Rope: The robust fibers were twisted into strong ropes, fishing lines, nets, and lashings for tools and canoes.
   • Clothing and Textiles: Various forms of clothing and textiles were made.
   • Building Materials: Used in the construction of whare (houses) and other structures.
2. Medicinal Uses (Rongoā Māori):
   • Hauora (Health and Well-being): The plant has a significant place in traditional Māori medicine (Rongoā Māori).
   • Gel/Gum: The sticky gel or gum from the base of the leaves was used externally for skin irritations, burns, wounds, boils, and internally as a mild laxative or for stomach ailments.
   • Leaf Extracts: Extracts from the leaves were used for various ailments, often as an antiseptic or anti-inflammatory.
   • Root Preparations: Roots were sometimes prepared for specific medicinal purposes.
3. Food and Drink (Limited):
   • Nectar: The sweet nectar from the flowers was a prized delicacy. It was collected and consumed directly or mixed with water.
   • Pollen: Sometimes the pollen was used.
   • Note: The leaves and seeds were generally not eaten as a food source, although some specific preparations or famine foods might have involved them with careful processing.
4. Other Uses:
   • Building: Leaves were used for roofing and wall coverings.
   • Crafts: Various tools, toys, and decorative items were made.
   • Fencing: The plant itself could be grown as a natural fence.

The deep knowledge and respect for New Zealand Flax are central to Māori culture, reflecting centuries of sustainable harvesting and utilization of this remarkable plant.

How Do You Propagate New Zealand Flax?

New Zealand Flax (Phormium spp.) is relatively easy to propagate, primarily through division of mature clumps or by seed, though division is usually faster and more reliable for maintaining cultivar characteristics.

Here's how to propagate New Zealand Flax:

1. Division (Most Common and Recommended Method):

This is the preferred method for propagating specific cultivars or variegated forms, as it ensures the new plants are genetically identical to the parent.

• Best Time: Late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins, or in early fall.
• Method:
  1. Dig Up the Clump: Carefully dig up an established, healthy clump of New Zealand Flax. This can require some effort for large plants.
  2. Divide the Rhizome: Using a sharp spade, a sturdy knife, or even two pitchforks back-to-back, divide the rhizomatous rootstock into smaller sections. Each section should have several healthy fans of leaves and a good portion of roots attached.
  3. Prepare Divisions: Trim off any dead or damaged leaves and roots from the divisions. You can also lightly trim the top 1/3 of the foliage to reduce transpiration shock after planting.
  4. Replant: Immediately replant the divisions in prepared soil at the same depth they were previously growing. Water thoroughly.
• Benefits: Faster establishment, maintains cultivar traits (e.g., specific leaf colors).

2. From Seed:

Growing from seed is a slower process, and if the parent plant is a hybrid or cultivar, the offspring may not come true to type (they may revert to a parent species or have different characteristics).

• Seed Collection: Collect seeds from the dry, dark-colored capsules (pods) in late autumn or winter. Allow capsules to dry completely before extracting the small, flat, black seeds.
• Stratification (Optional but Recommended): Some sources suggest a period of cold stratification (storing seeds in a damp medium in the refrigerator for 4-6 weeks) to improve germination, though fresh seeds may germinate without it.
• Sowing:
  1. Sow seeds in a well-draining seed-starting mix in trays or pots. Lightly cover the seeds with mix (about 1/8 to 1/4 inch / 3-6 mm).
  2. Keep the soil moist and at a temperature of around 65-75°F (18-24°C).
  3. Germination can be slow and erratic, often taking weeks to several months.
• Care: Once seedlings emerge, provide bright, indirect light and gradually acclimate them to outdoor conditions. They will grow slowly and require patience.

For gardeners seeking to maintain specific ornamental characteristics or a quicker growth to maturity, division is the superior method. Seed propagation is primarily used for creating new varieties or large numbers of plants without specific clonal requirements.

How Do You Care for New Zealand Flax?

Caring for New Zealand Flax (Phormium spp.) is relatively straightforward, as these plants are quite robust and low-maintenance once established. Providing their basic needs will ensure their vibrant foliage and architectural form enhance your garden.

Here's how to care for New Zealand Flax:

1. Sunlight:
   • Full Sun to Partial Shade: They perform best in full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight) for optimal leaf color and robust growth. They tolerate partial shade, especially in hotter climates, but may have less vibrant foliage.
2. Soil:
   • Well-Drained Soil: This is crucial. New Zealand Flax tolerates a wide range of soil types (sandy, clay, loam) as long as it is well-draining. They do not like constantly soggy conditions, which can lead to root rot.
   • pH: They are adaptable to a wide pH range, from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline.
3. Watering:
   • Establishment: Water regularly and deeply during their first year after planting to help them establish a strong root system.
   • Established Plants: Once established, they are quite drought-tolerant and require minimal supplemental watering. Water occasionally during prolonged dry spells, especially if planted in very sandy soil or hot climates. In cooler, rainier climates, natural rainfall may suffice.
4. Fertilization:
   • New Zealand Flax are not heavy feeders. A light application of a balanced granular slow-release fertilizer in early spring is usually sufficient. Over-fertilization can sometimes lead to leggy growth or stress.
   • If planted in fertile soil and mulched with compost, they may not need additional fertilizer.
5. Pruning:
   • Remove Dead/Damaged Leaves: Regularly prune off any dead, yellowed, or damaged leaves at the base of the plant to maintain a tidy appearance. Use sharp pruning shears.
   • Remove Spent Flower Stalks: After flowering, cut back the tall flower stalks once they have faded.
   • Rejuvenation (for very large plants): For very old or overgrown clumps, you can cut the entire plant back hard (to within a few inches of the ground) every few years to rejuvenate it, though this is quite drastic.
6. Pest and Disease Control:
   • Generally pest and disease resistant. Occasionally, mealybugs or scale might be an issue, especially in sheltered spots. Address with insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.
7. Winter Protection (in colder zones):
   • In the colder end of their hardiness range (USDA Zone 8), they may benefit from a thick layer of mulch around the base in late fall to protect the crown from freezing. Some leaf tip damage may occur in hard freezes.

With these simple care practices, New Zealand Flax will provide year-round interest and dramatic flair to your landscape.

What is the Lifespan of a New Zealand Flax Plant?

New Zealand Flax plants (Phormium spp.) are long-lived perennials, capable of thriving for many years, often several decades, in suitable growing conditions. Their robust, clumping growth habit and natural resilience contribute to their impressive longevity in the garden.

Here's what contributes to their lifespan:

• Perennial Nature: Unlike annuals that complete their life cycle in one season, New Zealand Flax is a perennial, meaning it lives for more than two years.
• Rhizomatous Growth: They grow from a sturdy, underground rhizome (stem) that continuously produces new fans of leaves. This allows the plant to constantly renew itself from the base.
• Hardiness and Adaptability: They are very hardy in their preferred zones (USDA Zones 8-11) and can tolerate a range of soil types and conditions, which reduces stress and extends their life.
• Low Maintenance: Once established, their low water and nutrient requirements mean less stress from gardener neglect.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Their natural resistance to most common pests and diseases further contributes to their longevity.
• Rejuvenation through Division: For very old or overgrown clumps that might start to decline in vigor, division is an excellent way to essentially "rejuvenate" the plant and extend its life, as the divisions are new, vigorous plants from the parent stock.

While individual fans of leaves eventually die back, the overall clump continues to grow and expand. With proper care and occasional division (if they become too large for their space), a New Zealand Flax plant can be a prominent and beautiful feature in a garden for 20 to 50 years or even longer, providing enduring architectural interest.

Can New Zealand Flax Be Grown Indoors?

Yes, New Zealand Flax can be grown indoors, particularly the smaller cultivars and varieties, making it an architectural statement plant for bright indoor spaces. However, it requires specific conditions to thrive, and its large size potential often makes it a temporary or juvenile indoor plant rather than a long-term fixture.

Here's how to successfully grow New Zealand Flax indoors:

1. Choose the Right Variety:
   • Opt for smaller, more compact cultivars or those specifically marketed for containers. Look for variegated varieties with colorful foliage, as they tend to be smaller and more ornamental.
   • Examples: Many Phormium cookianum cultivars (often referred to as 'Mountain Flax' types) are better suited due to their more moderate size.
2. Provide Abundant Light:
   • Brightest Spot Possible: This is the most crucial requirement indoors. New Zealand Flax needs at least 6-8 hours of direct, bright sunlight per day. Place it in your brightest window (south-facing is ideal) or supplement with a powerful grow light.
   • Signs of Insufficient Light: Leaves will become pale, green, and leggy, losing their vibrant colors in variegated forms.
3. Use a Large, Well-Draining Pot:
   • Size: Choose the largest pot you can accommodate, ideally at least 15-20 inches (38-50 cm) in diameter, to allow for root growth and reduce frequent repotting.
   • Drainage: The pot must have excellent drainage holes.
   • Material: Heavy ceramic, plastic, or concrete pots will provide stability for a tall plant.
4. Well-Draining Potting Mix:
   • Use a high-quality, well-draining potting mix designed for container plants. Amend with extra perlite or coarse sand to ensure sharp drainage.
5. Watering:
   • Consistent Moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist during the active growing season (spring/summer), but allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out between waterings.
   • Reduce in Winter: Reduce watering frequency in fall/winter when growth slows.
   • Avoid Overwatering: They are susceptible to root rot in constantly soggy soil. A soil moisture meter can help.
6. Humidity:
   • While tough, they appreciate moderate to high humidity. If indoor air is very dry, occasional misting or a pebble tray can help.
7. Fertilization:
   • Feed lightly with a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, once a month during spring and summer.
8. Repotting/Pruning:
   • Repot into a larger container every 2-3 years, or divide the plant if it becomes too large.
   • Prune dead or damaged leaves at the base as needed.
9. Air Circulation:
   • Ensure good airflow to prevent fungal issues.

While New Zealand Flax can add a stunning architectural element to an indoor space, be prepared for its eventual size. Many gardeners move them outdoors or give them away once they outgrow their indoor quarters.