Dianella caerulea (Blue Flax-Lily, Blueberry or Paroo Lily)


Botanical Information

FamilyXanthorrhoeaceae
GenusDianella
Speciescaerulea
CategoryTropicals

Description and Growing Information

CultivationBelieved to have been first propagated in England in 1783, Dianella caerulea is commonly cultivated in gardens, and is sometimes seen as a low-hedging plant in public spaces and amenities plantings. It is very hardy and long-lived, and suitable for rockeries. It is tolerant of poor drainage and responds well to extra moisture. Plants attract fruit-eating birds and butterflies in garden settings. The smaller denser forms in particular have potential for small gardens.
HabitatEastern Australia and Tasmania
Leaf DescriptionThe bright green leaves have straight or toothed margins, and may reach 75 cm in length and 3-25 mm wide.
Flower DescriptionThe small 1-1.6 cm flowers bloom in spring and summer (August to January); the perianth is pale to a dark blue, or green-blue, and the anthers at the centre are yellowy brown.
Fruit DescriptionSmall roughly spherical indigo-coloured edible berries which range from about 7-12 mm in diameter.

Photographs