Anō whatu (often referred to as Astelia banksii, or coastal astelia) is a hardy New Zealand native perennial with long, arching silver-grey to green strap-like leaves that form dense clumps, typically growing 1–2 metres tall and wide, well suited to coastal environments where it thrives in wind, salt spray, and poor, free-draining soils in full sun to partial shade.
It produces small flowers hidden within the foliage followed by orange to red berries that attract birds, and is widely used in coastal plantings for texture, colour contrast, and resilience in exposed conditions.
Performs best with occasional moisture during extended dry periods to maintain healthy foliage and strong growth.
Astelia banksii
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Botanical Name Astelia banksii Maori Name Anō whatu Common Name Astelia banksii, or coastal astelia Family Asteliaceae Type native perennial Origin New Zealand Mature Height 1-2m Mature Spread 1-2m Sun Requirements Full sun to part shade Soil Free-draining, sandy or rocky soils; dislikes heavy, waterlogged ground Flowering greenish to cream-coloured flowers that are tucked within the foliage on tall, slender flowering stems Wind Tolerance High Frost Tolerance Light frost tolerant once established
Drought Tolerance good drought tolerance once established Growth Rate Moderate Maintenance Very low Conservation Status Not Threatened
