Dianella tasmanica 'Variegata'
perennial RHS Award

Blueberry Flax Lily

Dianella tasmanica 'Variegata'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

30 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

8, 9

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Long-lived perennial

Native To

Australia, Tasmania

Toxicity

Berries are mildly toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Dianella tasmanica is a rhizomatous, evergreen perennial with strap-like leaves, forming dense clumps. It produces small flowers followed by attractive, inedible blue berries. 'Variegata' is distinguished by its striking green leaves with bold, creamy-white to pale yellow stripes along the margins. This variegation provides strong architectural interest year-round.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesThe striking white and green variegated foliage provides year-round color and architectural form, making it a superb accent plant in borders, containers, or as a massed groundcover. Its delicate blue flowers and vibrant purple berries add seasonal interest.
Practical UsesIts tolerance for drought and coastal conditions makes it a low-maintenance choice for challenging garden spots. It can be used for erosion control on gentle slopes and its clumping nature helps suppress weeds.
Ecological BenefitsThe bright blue berries are attractive to and consumed by various bird species, providing a valuable food source. The flowers offer nectar for small native bees and other pollinators.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Choose a spot with well-draining soil and morning sun.
  2. Dig a hole as deep and twice as wide as the pot.
  3. Gently tease out the roots and place the plant in the hole.
  4. Backfill with soil, ensuring the crown is at soil level.
  5. Water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.
  6. Apply a layer of mulch to retain moisture.

Pro Tip

Provide afternoon shade in hottest climates to prevent leaf scorch and maintain vibrant variegation.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly until established, then only during dry spells.
  • Remove old flower stalks and dead leaves to keep it tidy.
  • Divide clumps every 3-4 years in spring if they become crowded.
  • Provide afternoon shade in hot climates.

Don't

  • Do not overwater, as it can lead to root rot.
  • Avoid planting in heavy, waterlogged clay soil.
  • Don't use heavy nitrogen fertilizers which can reduce variegation.
  • Do not ingest the berries.

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Mulch
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Striking variegated foliage accentArchitectural container specimenMass planting for textural contrast

Companion Plants

Agapanthus Phormium Cordyline Heuchera Carex

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Blueberry Flax Lily questions

What zones can Blueberry Flax Lily grow in?

Blueberry Flax Lily is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Blueberry Flax Lily deer resistant?

Yes — Blueberry Flax Lily is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Blueberry Flax Lily bloom?

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

Does Blueberry Flax Lily need full sun?

Blueberry Flax Lily does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Blueberry Flax Lily drought tolerant?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Blueberry Flax Lily with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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