Frank Tansey
Family
Liliaceae
Botanical Name
DIANELLA tasmanica
Plant Common Name
Blueberry Flax, Tasmanian Flax Lily
General Description
Tasmanian flax lily is an evergreen perennial native to southeastern Australia and Tasmania. The leaves grow from underground thick stems that grow laterally and spread to form clumps or colonies. Its leathery strap-like blades are often curved. The lavender-blue flowers are held on branched stems above the foliage and appear from spring to summer. Each flower is small, nodding, star-shaped and centered with a flare of bright yellow male structures called stamens. These are followed by persistent berry-like fruits that are round to oblong and violet-blue.
Flax lily is easy-to-grow and prefers partial sun or partial shade and average soil with good drainage. However, it will tolerate full sun if well watered. This lily will withstand some frost and is drought tolerant once established, though it looks best if watered during dry spells. It can be grown outside in mild climates or in containers in colder zones. Use as a ground cover, rock garden plant or in mixed borders.
Characteristics
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AHS Heat Zone
12 - 10
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USDA Hardiness Zone
12 - 15
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Sunset Zone
8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
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Plant Type
Tender Perennial
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Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Partial Sun
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Height
24"-48" / 61.0cm - 121.9cm
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Width
18"-48" / 45.7cm - 121.9cm
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Bloom Time
Early Summer, Summer, Late Summer
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Native To
Australia, New Zealand
Growing Conditions
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Soil pH
Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline
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Soil Drainage
Well Drained
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Soil type
Clay, Loam, Sand
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Growth Rate
Medium
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Water Requirements
Drought Tolerant, Average Water
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Habit
Clump-Forming
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Seasonal Interest
Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
Special Characteristics
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Usage
Bedding Plant, Container, Groundcover, Mixed Border, Rock Garden / Wall, Tropical
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Sharp or Has Thorns
No
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Invasive
No
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Self-Sowing
Yes
