Wharariki Astelia banksii
ABOUT
Astelia banksii, commonly known as Wharawhara, is a distinctive plant that features arching, sword-like leaves. The foliage typically has a silvery sheen and sometimes exhibits a pale green, bronze or reddish hue, especially on the undersides, which adds to its visual appeal. The plant's leaves are long and narrow, with a texture that can range from leathery to slightly fibrous. The edges of the leaves are often finely toothed, providing a slightly serrated appearance. The leaf arrangement of Wharawhara forms a dense clump, creating a tufted look that originates from a central base, making this plant an attractive focal point in garden design. It blooms with inconspicuous, small flowers that are generally grouped together on a branched inflorescence arising from the center of the foliage clump. These flowers may lead to the production of berries that carry the seeds, and depending on the specific conditions, the fruits can add an additional element of interest to the plant's appearance.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteliaceae
Synonyms
Wharariki, Coastal Astelia, Mountain Astelia
Common names
Genetyllis banksii, Astelia solandri.
ToxicityTo humans
Astelia banksii, commonly known as Wharariki, is not widely recognized for its toxicity to humans; there is no substantial evidence to suggest that this plant is poisonous or that it would cause symptoms of poisoning if ingested. However, it is generally advisable to avoid eating ornamental plants due to potential individual sensitivities or unknown toxic compounds.
To pets
Similar to its effects on humans, Wharariki is not well known to be toxic to pets. It does not appear on common lists of plants that are poisonous to animals like dogs and cats, and there is a lack of information on any specific symptoms that could result from ingestion. Nonetheless, as with humans, it's wise to prevent pets from ingesting plants not meant for consumption to avoid any potential negative reactions.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Silver-green
Height
4 feet (1.2 meters)
Spread
4 feet (1.2 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
New Zealand
Benefits
General Benefits- Erosion control: Astelia banksii, commonly known as Wharariki, has a root system that helps stabilize soil, preventing erosion in sloped and coastal areas.
- Habitat for wildlife: It provides shelter and food for native insects and birds, thereby supporting local biodiversity.
- Landscape aesthetics: Wharariki has silvery-green, strap-like leaves that add an attractive visual element to gardens and natural landscapes.
- Low maintenance: It is a hardy plant that requires minimal care once established, making it suitable for low-maintenance landscapes.
- Drought tolerance: The plant is well-adapted to dry conditions, making it a good choice for water-conserving gardens.
- Salt resistance: It can tolerate salty winds and soil, which makes it ideal for coastal plantings.
- Cultural significance: It holds importance for the indigenous Māori people of New Zealand, where it is endemic and used in traditional craft and weaving.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The tough, fibrous leaves of Astelia banksii (commonly known as coastal astelia) can be used for weaving traditional baskets and mats by local indigenous peoples.
- Coastal astelia's natural sheen and architectural form make it a popular ornamental plant for garden landscapes and urban public spaces.
- Due to their robust nature, the leaves can be used to create natural satchels or wrap food for cooking in earth ovens, similar to the use of banana leaves in some cultures.
- The plant's long, strap-like leaves can be plaited to construct temporary shelters and roofs in survival situations.
- Coastal astelia can be planted to stabilize soil on slopes or in coastal areas where erosion control is needed.
- The silvery foliage of coastal astelia can be used in floral arrangements as a unique and long-lasting foliage element.
- Its dense clumps can provide shelter and habitat for small native animals and insects, enhancing biodiversity in restoration projects or natural gardens.
- Photographers and filmmakers sometimes use coastal astelia in their compositions, as its distinctive form adds visual interest and texture.
- In regions where coastal astelia is native, the plant can be used in cultural education programs to teach about indigenous horticultural practices and plant uses.
- Some gardeners might use the dried leaves as a form of natural mulch, which can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Wharawhara is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Wharawhara is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience - Astelia banksii, commonly known as Wharariki, is known for its ability to withstand harsh conditions, symbolizing the strength and resilience to thrive in adversity.
- Protection - The spiky texture of Wharariki's leaves gives a sense of guarding and defense, representing the idea of shielding oneself or others from harm.
- Adaptability - Wharariki's capability to adapt to different soil types and environments signifies the ability to adjust and succeed in various situations.
- Unique beauty - With its distinctive silver foliage, Wharariki reminds us that beauty comes in many forms, and often it is the unique characteristics that stand out the most.
WaterFor Wharawhara (Astelia banksii), ensure it is watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch; this may typically mean watering it approximately once a week. During the growing season in spring and summer, you might need to water your Wharawhara more frequently. Use lukewarm water and add enough so that it runs through the drainage holes, which might be around 16 to 32 ounces for a medium-sized pot. During the fall and winter, reduce watering to every other week or less, depending on the plant's environment and humidity levels. Always avoid overwatering to prevent root rot, making sure the pot has good drainage.
LightWharawhara (Astelia banksii) thrives best in bright, indirect light. Place it in a spot that receives partial shade if keeping it outdoors or near a north-facing window if it's indoors. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, whereas too little light can cause poor growth and dull foliage.
TemperatureWharawhara (Astelia banksii) prefers mild temperatures and can tolerate a range between 50°F and 80°F. The plant can survive brief periods of colder weather down to about 35°F but sustained exposure may harm it. Ideally, keep your Wharawhara in an environment that maintains a temperature around 65°F to 75°F for optimal growth.
PruningPruning Wharawhara (Astelia banksii) is primarily done to remove dead or damaged foliage and to maintain its shape. It's best to prune in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove only the affected leaves with clean, sharp shears, and ensure not to over-prune as this can stress the plant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilWharawhara, or Astelia banksii, thrives best in a well-draining, peaty soil mix with good organic content. Aim for a soil pH around 5.5 to 6.5. Mixing standard potting soil with peat and perlite or pumice can create an ideal environment for its roots.
RepottingWharawhara should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and allow for growth. Avoid repotting too frequently as this plant prefers to be somewhat root-bound.
Humidity & MistingWharawhara prefers moderate to high humidity levels, around 60-80%, similar to its native New Zealand forest habitat, to thrive indoors.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Wharawhara in bright, indirect light indoors.
Outdoor
Plant Wharawhara in dappled shade outdoors.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Astelia banksii, commonly known as Bank's astelia, begins with seed germination, triggered by suitable environmental conditions such as moisture and temperature. After germination, the seedling emerges, developing a rosette of long, sword-like leaves characteristic of mature plants. As it grows, Bank's astelia enters a vegetative state where it focuses on leaf and root development to gather sunlight and nutrients. After reaching maturity, which can take several years, the plant produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are typically unisexual, with some plants bearing male flowers and others female. Following pollination, typically by wind or occasionally insects, female plants produce berries that contain seeds, completing the reproductive cycle. These seeds are then dispersed, often by birds that eat the berries, to begin the next generation of Bank's astelia.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-summer
The most popular method of propagating Astelia banksii, commonly known as Banks' astelia, is through division. This plant can be divided during the late winter or early spring before new growth begins. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the plant and gently separate the clumps into smaller sections, ensuring that each new section has a portion of the root system. Once divided, the sections can be replanted in well-draining soil at the same depth they were growing previously. After replanting, water the divisions thoroughly to help establish them. This method is effective because it maintains the genetic consistency of the plants and allows for rapid increase in numbers.
