Tasman Flax Lily (Dianella tasmanica)

Tasman Flax Lily

Dianella tasmanica

Sleek grassy foliage carries delicate blue blooms, a quiet garden staple. Evergreen herbaceous perennial; common names: Tasman Flax Lily, Blueberry Flax Lily.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright partial sun to full shade; tolerates full sun in cool temperate climates, avoid scorching midday sun in hot regions
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Watering Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil dries out; drought-tolerant once established
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Temperature Hardy to -5°C for short periods; optimal growth at 10–25°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Linear sword-shaped leaves, 60–120 cm long, glossy deep green, arranged in tight clumps
  • Flower: Star-shaped pale blue to violet blooms on slender upright stems
  • Fruit: Round metallic blue berries, edible when fully ripe with mild sweet flavor
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged

Fertilization

Diluted balanced organic feed once monthly. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms

Banana peel tea:Soak 2–3 chopped banana peels in 5L water for 3 days; dilute 1:10 with water before applying as a root drench
Pruning
  • Trim browned leaf tips and spent flower stems to maintain a tidy clump appearance
  • Divide overcrowded clumps in early spring for propagation and improved growth
  • Remove old, yellowed foliage in late winter to make space for new spring growth
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic; no known adverse effects

Humans: Non-toxic; ripe berries are edible with mild flavor

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental garden border plant; ripe berries are edible for human consumption