Astelia nervosa, kakaha or mountain astelia is endemic to the North, South and Stewart Islands. It is found in alpine zones, usually  in damp, often peaty areas of mixed tussock-scrub, tussock grassland and herbfields from Mount Hikurangi to Mount Taranaki and Taupo in the north and ascends to 1500m asl. It widespread in the south where it descends to about 100m asl., sometimes growing in beech forest. Astelia nervosa is a variable species, both in size and leaf coloration. Those found in lowland districts not infrequently have leaves that may be varying shades of green, while in alpine districts the silvery pellicle on the upper service may be much more pronounced so plants have a more silvery in appearance. Other forms can have reddish or bronze hues, and there are numerous varieties cultivated for these colours. It is a common component of mountain vegetation particularly above the tree-line.  An attractive plant that grows from 60cm - 1m in height with arching leaves, that makes an excellent specimen, or can be used as a groundcover. It grows in sun or shade, moist or wet conditions. It has bright orange fruit from February to May after flowering from October to January.