Astelia banksii
coastal astelia
 
Grows to 1-1.5m height
NZ native
Moist but well-drained soil
Partial shade to full sun
Chalk, clay, sand
 
Great for ground cover, Astelia is an evergreen, clump forming perennial with silvery leaves. Works well at the front/middle of borders and, as the name suggests, is particularly suited to costal locations. Female plants bear panicles of white flowers in summer, followed by purple-pink fruits in autumn. Native to New Zealand North Island.