Silver Spear (Astelia chathamica)

Silver Spear

Astelia chathamica

Its silvery foliage glows like frosted metal, a striking textural accent. Evergreen herbaceous perennial; common name: Silver Spear.

Bright indirect to full sun; silvery foliage color intensifies in full sun, avoid scorching midday sun in hot climates
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright indirect to full sun; silvery foliage color intensifies in full sun, avoid scorching midday sun in hot climates
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Watering Allow the top 2–3 cm of soil to dry completely between waterings; avoid standing water to prevent root rot
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Temperature Hardy to -5°C with winter protection; prefers cool to temperate growing conditions
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Long, sword-shaped silvery-green leaves with a metallic sheen, forming tight upright clumps
  • Flower: Small, greenish-white fragrant flowers on slender upright spikes
  • Fruit: Orange-red berries (rarely produced in indoor cultivation)
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed once every 6 weeks. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prevent dulling of the silvery foliage color

Eggshell powder top dressing:Crush dried, rinsed eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on the soil surface to improve drainage and boost calcium levels without overfeeding
Pruning
  • Remove brown or damaged leaves at the base to maintain a tidy clump
  • Trim spent flower spikes after blooming to redirect energy to foliage growth
  • Divide overcrowded clumps in early spring for propagation and to refresh growth
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no adverse effects reported

Humans: No reported toxicity to humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental foliage for rock gardens, border edging, or indoor container displays