Astelia nivicola, commonly known as Red Mountain Astelia, is an evergreen perennial herb native to the subalpine and alpine zones of Southern New Zealand, particularly found in tussock grasslands and mountainous scrub areas. It typically grows to a height and width of approximately 2 feet (0.6 meters), forming clumps of long, arching, silvery-green leaves that can add a unique texture to garden compositions. The plant produces inconspicuous greenish flowers, which are followed by orange-red berries that are attractive to birds.

Red Mountain Astelia is valued for its striking foliage and its ability to provide year-round interest in gardens. It is often used in cultivation for mass plantings, rock gardens, and as an accent plant in borders due to its distinctive form and color. This Astelia prefers cool climates and can tolerate a range of light conditions, from full sun in cooler regions to part shade. It requires soils with good drainage and can handle medium amounts of water, making it relatively easy to maintain. While it is generally pest-free, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly draining soils.CC BY-SA 4.0