Native Bank Planting (Low Growing)

Sophora molloyii Dragons Gold is a compact and hardy NZ native evergreen shrub that stands out for its vibrant golden-yellow flowers. This unique variety blooms even earlier than its relatives, gracing gardens with its prolific flowers in winter. The fern-like, bright green foliage complements the radiant colours, making it a visual treat throughout the year. Growing to an approximate height and width of 2 metres, Dragons Gold is versatile and fits perfectly in border plantings and pots, and can even be trimmed into an attractive hedge.

Not just a treat for the eyes, this Kowhai variety is a favourite amongst native birds such as tui and kereru, who are drawn to its nectar-rich flowers. It thrives best in well-drained soil and can tolerate sunny and semi-shaded spots in the garden.

Astelia fragrans is a native New Zealand gem that has bushy arching evergreen flax-like leaves. From spring to summer, Astelia fragrans produces clusters of small, honey-scented flowers, followed by attractive orange berries that attract birds to the garden. It thrives in a range of conditions, from full sun to partial shade, coastal areas, and windy conditions. Astelia fragrans is perfect for planting under large trees where it is difficult to establish other plants and brightens up a shaded area. Its tolerance to various soil types and its drought-resistant nature once established, makes it a valuable addition to diverse garden settings. Height 1m

Phormium cookianum, more commonly known as mountain flax or wharariki, is endemic to New Zealand and is a very useful plant for any native planting project. Despite its common name, it is found throughout New Zealand from coastal slopes to alpine treelines. 

Phormium cookianum is smaller than the New Zealand flax Phormium tenax/harakeke, rarely reaching more than 1.6m, and its leaves and seed pods droop and twist more. The flowers are a source of nectar for the native birds, especially tui and bellbird/korimako.

Carex secta, or pukio, is a vigorous, green, spreading tussock. Good screen or filler plant, especially in waterlogged areas. Very hardy. Evergreen. NZ native. 1.5m x 1m.

Coprosma Hawera is a fast-growing, low-lying New Zealand native that creates a dense mat of small, narrow olive-green leaves. Its hardy nature allows it to thrive in various conditions, though it has a preference for dry areas. Its cascading growth habit is especially stunning over walls or down banks. When fully grown, Coprosma Hawera typically measures around 50cm in height and can spread up to 1m wide, offering excellent ground cover. A great native for supressing weeds. 

Pittosporum Golf Ball is a neat forming, rounded New Zealand shrub.  This plant is ideal for adding structure and architectural interest to the planting scheme and also makes a great low hedge.  Small purple flowers appear in late spring and early summer with a sweet, honey-like scent.  Frost hardy and likes a spot in the full sun and partial shade with a moist, well-drained soil.  Grows to a height of 1m but can be trimmed to retain a smaller shape.