Found some years ago on NZ’s south island after many quasi-successful endeavors in bringing this plant to North America, our original collection is finally available from Christchurch’s fabulous Texture Plants Nursery. Similar in size to A. ‘Red Gem’ (to 2ft tall and wide) but with deeper burgundy tones in winter and throughout summer in exposed locations. Often quite stunning. Despite its xeric appearance, it prefers reliably damp conditions and a slight northerly aspect in hotter climates. Plants have survived to 0 F in others gardens, but we will say upper zone 7 to be on the safe side. Woohoo!

RED MOUNTAIN ASTELIA

Asteliaceae