For those with smaller garden spaces, 'Yellow Wave' phormium may be a great choice for adding year-round textural and color interest. Variegated strap leaves emerge with a bright yellow central band that deepens to a yellow-green as the leaves mature. 'Yellow Wave' grows to about three feet tall, but may eventually spread to four feet wide. Deer- and rabbit-resistant, it is somewhat drought-tolerant and does well in coastal gardens. Phormiums look their best when watered regularly, providing a bold look to the contemporary garden.