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New Zealand flax, Phormium tenax

New Zealand flax This plant likes gowing near streams in a sunny position but moist soil.

The roasted seed is used as a coffee substitute.

An edible nectar is obtained from the flowers. Very wholesome eating. A long hollow grass-stalk or straw is used to suck it out of the flowers.

An edible gum is obtained from the base of the leaves.

A very high quality pliable fibre is obtained from the leaves. It is used in the manufacture of ropes (they are not very strong), twine, fine cloth etc.

The fibre can also be used for making paper. The leaves are harvested in summer, they are scraped to remove the outer skin and are then soaked in water for 2 hours prior to cooking. The fibres are cooked for 24 hours with lye and then beaten in a ball mill for 4 hours. New Zealand flax flowers They make a cream paper.

The split leaves can be used to make nets, cloaks, sandals, straps etc. They are also used in making paper and basket making.

A strip of a leaf is an excellent emergency string substitute for tying up plants in the garden, it can be tied into a knot without breaking.

The leaf pulp, after the fibre has been removed, can be fermented to make alcohol.

A gum found in the leaves is used as a paper glue.

A brown dye is obtained from the flowers, it does not require a mordant. A terra-cotta dye is obtained from the seedpods. A mauve can also be obtained.