Bush flax 'Westland' Astelia nervosa 'Westland'

Water

For the Mountain Astelia, it's important to maintain a consistent watering schedule to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which may be about once a week, varying depending on the environment's temperature and humidity. It’s typically ideal to provide around half a gallon of water per watering session, ensuring that the water reaches the root zone without leaving the soil soggy. During the winter months, reduce the watering frequency as the plant's growth slows.

Light

Mountain Astelia prefers bright, indirect light though it can tolerate partial shade. The best spot for the plant would be in a location where it can receive filtered sunlight, such as near an east or north-facing window that is shielded from harsh direct afternoon rays, which can be too intense and may scorch the leaves.

Temperature

The Mountain Astelia thrives best in temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can withstand occasional dips down to 50 degrees but should not be exposed to temperatures below that as it can cause damage to the plant. It's not tolerant of frost, so in regions with colder climates, it’s necessary to bring the plant indoors or provide protection when outdoor temperatures drop.

Pruning

Pruning the Mountain Astelia involves occasional trimming to remove dead or damaged foliage. This keeps the plant looking tidy and can be done any time of year as needed. However, the best time for a more thorough pruning is in late winter or early spring, before new growth starts. Prune sparingly since the plant naturally has a dashing form and doesn't require heavy cutting back.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Mountain astelia thrives in well-drained soil with a mix of loam, peat, and sharp sand, enhancing drainage and aeration. Ideal soil pH for mountain astelia is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 5.5 to 7.0.

Repotting

Mountain astelia should be repotted every 2 to 3 years, or once it has outgrown its current container, to ensure continued growth and health.

Humidity & Misting

Mountain astelia prefers moderate to high humidity levels, ideally around 50-70% for optimal growth and foliage health.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place mountain astelia in bright, indirect light and maintain moderate humidity.

• Outdoor

  Choose a sheltered spot with partial shade and well-draining soil for mountain astelia.

• Hardiness zone

  7-9 USDA

Life cycle

Astelia nervosa 'Westland', commonly known as Bronze Astelia or Silver Spear, starts its life as a seed, often germinating in moist, shaded conditions. The seedling develops into a mature plant with a rosette of arching, metallic green-bronze leaves. This perennial plant slowly spreads through rhizomes to form clumps. In its perennial life stages, Bronze Astelia produces small, star-shaped, inconspicuous flowers that are usually green or yellow. After pollination, the flowers develop into orange-red berries that contain seeds, completing the reproductive cycle. The plant may die back in harsh conditions but can re-sprout from the rhizomes, continuing its life cycle for several years.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to summer

• Astelia nervosa 'Westland', commonly known as Silver Spear, is usually propagated by division, which is its most popular method. This process involves separating the plant's rhizomes, typically during the spring or early summer when the plant is coming out of dormancy and has the full growing season ahead to establish itself. To divide Silver Spear, carefully remove the plant from its container or dig it up from the ground. Gently pull apart the rhizomes, ensuring each division has a portion of the roots attached. These divisions can then be planted in well-draining soil, at a depth roughly equivalent to their previous growing conditions, and watered thoroughly. It is crucial to maintain consistent moisture without saturating the soil, as Silver Spear prefers conditions that are moist but not waterlogged.