Joe wrote: "Hard to tell the difference even when two good plants are side-by-side. But amongst a group of 'DD Seedling', one can see the subtle variability." Thanks for the info Joe. Speaking of variability, that's one of my biggest complaints about Phormiums. More than once I've planted a grouping (3 - 5) of Amazing Red, Pink Stripe, or Sundowner only to have them grow in very differently ways - size wise. Very frustrating. I had high hopes for Monrovia's 'Festival Grass' Cordyline x 'Jurred' but found it works best with some afternoon shade. I assumed that being a Cordyline that it would be tough as nails but that isn't the case. Been using the other clumping Cordyline 'Electric Pink' with success so far, especially in containers.

There are a number of west coast wholesale sources, but I find nothing for your side of the country. Hybrid phormiums tend to be grown from divisions rather than seed - it takes a long time to raise one from seed and hybrids will unlikely come true to form. You might try looking for the cultivar 'Shiraz' - much more readily available and very similar in appearance and size. 'Amazing Red' is also a good substitute.

Ooooh, I love this post. I recently moved to Colorado (Littleton) in late August from my home state of Michigan and was wondering where all the good nurseries were! There a few small ones by me. As for seeds, I like to order from Jung's, Baker Seeds, and Burpee (their catalogs, like most seed catalogs, have much more variety than what is sold in stores). I will also order from an odd catalog or two I get, but the ones I named are where I order the most. For live plants, I like High Country Gardens and David Austin. Four years ago I ordered one of Jung's perennial gardens for sun. They came in 3 inch pots and I wasn't sure they would make it through the Michigan winter. Three summers in, I had the most lush, beautiful perennial garden I could hope for. I will definitely take the gamble on Jung's perennial garden again once I find a permanent home in CO. At least I am in same zone here as I was in MI so hopefully I will have the same success!

Have you tried Banana Joe on Salt Spring Island, British Columbia? He probably doesn't have Kiril's stock, but he will have some pretty hardy stuff of his own. He's a great guy and usually very willing to trade or share. You can probably find him in the Hardy Palms of the Northeast message board. Here is a link that might be useful: Hardy Palms of the Northeast