Dianella caerulea
flax lily
A smaller species, growing to 50-60cm, with numerous grass-like leaves and light blue flowers in short-branched panicles in summer, followed by shining, royal blue berries
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Blue | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | Blue | ||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
West–facing or East–facing or South–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H3Botanical details
- Family
- Asphodelaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- Potentially harmful
- Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
- Genus
Dianella are rhizomatous evergreen perennials with leathery, sword-shaped leaves and sprays of small, starry deep blue flowers followed by long-lasting blue or purple berries
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Australia, New Guinea
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moderately fertile, humus-rich, well-drained, neutral to acid soil in a sheltered site in full sun or partial shade
Propagation
Propagate by seed in containers at 13-16°C (55-61°F) in spring. Can also be propagated by division of rhizomes in mid-spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Coastal
- Patio and container plants
- City and courtyard gardens
- Cottage and informal garden
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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