Also known as Flax Lily · 49 saves
Dianella
Dianella, the genus most gardeners know as flax lily. We track 12 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 11 most-saved Dianella varieties
Browse all 12 Dianella varieties →
2 species of Dianella
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Dianella in Sow
Save the Dianella you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Dianella
Whats common across all Dianella varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 12 most-grown of them.
The Dianella year
- FertilizeMarch and April75% of varieties
Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
- Check for PestsJune and July67% of varieties
Check the crown and lower foliage for snails and slugs.
- PruneFebruary and March58% of varieties
Cut the entire clump back to 10–15 cm above ground level every three to four years to rejuvenate.
- PlantMarch, April, September and October58% of varieties
Plant in well-drained soil, ensuring the crown remains completely above the soil line.
- DivideMarch50% of varieties
Divide overcrowded clumps in spring to propagate and rejuvenate the plant.
- MulchMarch and November42% of varieties
Apply a layer of mulch in fall in colder zones (Zone 8) for winter protection.
- Spring CleanupFebruary and March42% of varieties
Remove any frost-damaged or dead foliage in late winter to make way for new growth.
Do
- Water regularly during the first summer to establish a deep root system.
- Plant in groups or masses for the greatest visual impact.
- Use in containers, where drainage can be easily controlled.
- Provide sharp drainage in all situations.
- Remove old flower stalks after berries have faded.
Avoid
- Do not overwater, especially in winter.
- Avoid planting in heavy clay soil without significant amendment.
- Do not plant in deep shade, as foliage color will be poor.
- Avoid heavy fertilization, which can lead to floppy growth.
What goes wrong with Dianella
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Mealybugs | White, cottony masses at the base of the leaves. | Dab with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Use insecticidal soap for larger infestations. |
| Scale insects | Sticky residue and yellowing leaves | Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil |
| Aphids | Distorted new growth and sticky honeydew | Use insecticidal soap or introduce beneficial insects |
| Snails and Slugs | Chewed or ragged leaf margins, particularly on young or low-hanging strappy foliage. | Clear mulch away directly from the crown and apply pet-safe iron chelate snail bait. |
| Root Rot | Yellowing leaves, mushy crown, and plant collapse. | Prevention is key. Plant in very well-drained soil. Reduce watering. There is no cure once rot is advanced. |
| Root rot | Wilting and blackened roots | Improve drainage and reduce watering |
| Phytophthora root rot | Collar rot, wilting, unthriftiness, and sudden collapse of the foliage fans in poorly drained soils. | Improve soil drainage, avoid overwatering, and plant in raised beds or well-amended ground. |
Making more Dianella
Division
- Dig up mature plants in early spring or fall.
- Gently separate clumps into smaller sections with roots attached.
- Plant divisions immediately into prepared soil.
- Water thoroughly and mulch to retain moisture.
Seed sowing
- Collect mature seeds in late summer.
- Tuck seeds into moist seed-starting mix.
- Keep soil consistently moist in a warm location.
- Transplant seedlings once established, after 6 weeks.
Dianella questions
How many types of Dianella are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 12 distinct Dianella varieties. The most popular — ranked by 49 real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Dianella grow in?
Across its varieties, Dianella covers USDA Zones 8–10. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Dianella bloom?
Most Dianella varieties bloom in early summer, late spring, spring. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Dianella should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.