Anyone grow Astelia?

[Amo]

I've just bought an Astelia Silver Spear and, as it's not one of the least expensive of plants per litre , I was wondering if anyone actually has it outside year round?

As we're south I'm tempted to just stick it in and see what happens, perhaps a bit of winter protection. Or should I play safe and pot it?

[andy]

Be interested too....we've got some in our bedding displays in Brighton and if the kids haven't killed them by October, i might aquire a couple.

Other than that, i've never heard of them until last month

[beanie]

I've put mine out in a sheltered border. I bought it because i thought it was hardy, but it seems that it does need some protection over the winter as the foliage can get damaged by frost. mine will have to stay out unless I but a bigger greenhouse. I hope a good depth of mulch will protect the root.

[Weeterrier]

I was tempted to buy one, they had them in Homebase and they were really fine plants, but at £9.99, I didn't bother. I'm pretty certain I would lose it up here. But it would likely survive if it were lifted, so I reckon growing in a pot would be the way to do it. Or giving it protection like you will Beanie.

[Amo]

I must admit I'm leaning toward the pot more and more WeeT. And thanks Beanie, you should be getting better Gulf Stream than me and if you're likely to struggle....

Andy, I thought you were going to be my saving grace on this one!! Looks like we're in it together then ;D They have just a lovely hue of silver, I couldn't leave it in the GC you know.