Species

Dianella tasmanicaTasmanian Flax Lily

3 other cultivars

grass

Tasman Flax Lily

Dianella tasmanica 'Silver Streak'

The Story

Plant Bio

Dianella tasmanica, commonly known as the Tasman flax lily, is a clumping, rhizomatous evergreen perennial native to the moist forests of southeastern Australia and Tasmania. It features broad, arching, strap-like green leaves and produces airy panicles of small, star-shaped violet-blue flowers with prominent yellow stamens, followed by ornamental blue berries.

'Silver Streak' is distinguished by its striking variegated foliage, featuring bold white longitudinal margins that contrast sharply with the rich green centers of the leaves. This cultivar is notably more sensitive to hard frosts than the straight species, requiring sheltered, frost-free positions or container cultivation in colder climates.

Uses & Benefits:

Bold, variegated evergreen foliage provides year-round structural interest in shaded borders and containers.

Serves as an excellent low-maintenance groundcover or accent plant for dry shade once established.

Small spring flowers attract local insect pollinators, though they do not typically draw hummingbirds.

SpeciesDianella tasmanicaTasmanian Flax Lily

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Grass

Height

24"

Width

36"

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Australia

Toxicity

Toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Spring – Summer

In flower about 6 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site with partial to full shade, ensuring protection from hot afternoon sun.
Prepare well-draining, loamy or sandy soil, incorporating organic matter to improve structure.
Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and set the plant at the same depth as its nursery container.
Water thoroughly after planting and maintain consistent moisture until the root system is established.
Apply a light layer of organic mulch around the base to retain moisture, keeping it clear of the crown.

Pro Tip

Variegated cultivars like 'Silver Streak' lack the robust cold tolerance of the straight species; protect plants from hard frosts to prevent severe leaf burn and tip dieback.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Grow in containers in USDA Zone 8 or colder to allow for winter protection.
Provide shade from harsh afternoon sun to prevent foliage scorch.
Ensure the soil drains rapidly to prevent root rot.

Don't

Do not allow the soil to remain waterlogged or soggy.
Avoid shearing the plant back into old, leafless wood.
Do not ingest the ornamental blue berries, as they are toxic.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Fertilize
Pest Check
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shade GardensContainer PlantingBorder EdgingCoastal GardensUnderstory Planting

Companion Plants

Heuchera Hosta Fatsia japonica

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Tasman Flax Lily questions

What zones can Tasman Flax Lily grow in?

Tasman Flax Lily is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

When does Tasman Flax Lily bloom?

Tasman Flax Lily typically blooms in spring through summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Tasman Flax Lily need full sun?

Tasman Flax Lily does best in part shade.

Is Tasman Flax Lily drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Tasman Flax Lily handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.