Astelia chathamica
Chatham Islands kakaha · Maori flax · Silver spear
Description
Source: leafsnapAstelia chathamica, commonly known as Chatham Island Astelia or Silver Spear, is a unique and attractive plant species that belongs to the Asteliaceae family. This plant is native to the Chatham Islands, located off the east coast of New Zealand. It gets its common name from its long, narrow silver-green leaves that resemble spears. Typically, Astelia chathamica grows up to 1 meter in height and spreads up to 1 meter in width. It has a clumping habit, with long, arching leaves emerging from a central rosette. The leaves are tough and leathery, featuring silver-green coloration on top and silvery-white undersides. This plant prefers moist soil conditions but can tolerate some drought once established. It thrives in partial shade or full sun but requires protection from strong winds, as its foliage can be easily damaged. In spring, Astelia chathamica produces small flowers on tall spikes, which are followed by small, red berries when ripe. These berries attract birds such as tui, bellbirds, and kereru (New Zealand pigeons), making it an excellent addition to bird-friendly gardens. Overall, Astelia chathamica is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking an attractive foliage plant with unique features. Its silver-green spears add texture and interest to any garden setting while providing habitat for native birds in New Zealand's ecosystem.
Care Guide
💧 Water Every 7 days
The Chatham Island kakaha thrives in its natural habitat, which is characterized by high humidity and frequent rainfall. This plant needs to be watered twice a week and has the ability to retain moisture in its leaves. These qualities make it an excellent choice for indoor cultivation where the humidity levels can be controlled.
☀️ Light Partial sun
Chatham island kakaha comes from habitats with dappled light, like the understory of forests or rocky sites that provide natural shade. It favors partial sun but can also tolerate full sun.
🌡️ Temperature 15–37.8°C
Chatham island kakaha prospers in warm conditions and needs higher temperatures during the growing season to support growth and metabolism. It prefers plenty of sunlight, suitable moisture levels, and good air circulation. However, it is vulnerable to harm from very low temperatures and overwatering. It's important to maintain a balance and also avoid excessively high temperatures and overly dry conditions.
💨 Humidity normal (40-60%)
This plant will thrive in moderate humidity, which is probably the level in your home. However, misting it a few times a week can be very beneficial. Make sure the room has good ventilation.
🪴 Soil 0-0
🌱 Fertilizer
For Chatham island kakaha, light applications of fertilizer once or twice a year during the growing season are enough. Do not fertilize in winter or summer when it is dormant. Cut back on fertilizer for repotted plants and wait a couple of months after repotting before you fertilize. Fertilizing helps maintain healthy growth and encourages flowering.
🪴 Pot & Repot
✂️ Pruning
The Chatham Island kakaha plant is characterized by its long, silver-green leaves that grow in dense clumps. To maintain its health and appearance, it is important to prune the plant in early spring. This involves removing any dead leaves to promote new growth and improve airflow. Additionally, thinning out older foliage can help prevent overcrowding. Be sure to use clean tools during this process to avoid spreading disease, which will enhance both the plant's health and its aesthetic appeal.
🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity
Characteristics
- Plant Type
- Herb, Succulent
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Astelia
- Family
- Asteliaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 8-11
- Mature Height
- 1.22 m
- Mature Spread
- 1.83 m
- Leaf Color
- Gray, Silver
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- Green, Brown
- Flower Size
- 0.25 cm to 0.51 cm
- Bloom Time
- Mid spring, Late spring
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Mid summer, Late summer, Early fall