Description
Common names
Smooth Flax-lily, Pale Flax-lily, Smooth-leaved Flax-lily, Greater Blueberry lily, Blueberry Lily, Blue Flax-lily, Smooth Flax-lily., Dianella Longifolia, Flax Lily, Flax-lily.
Scientific names
Dianella longifolia, Dianella laevis.
Family
Phormiaceae.
Genus
Dianella.
Presence in Australia
Noted in most areas of region.
This specie has been identified in the following Australian states: Qld, NSW, ACT, Vic, Tas, SA, NT, WA.
Habitat
Sclerophyll forest.
Habit
Tufted perennial herb with fleshy-fibrous or tuberous roots. Strap-like leaves to 80cm long and inflorescence beyond foliage up to 1.5m high. Globular pale blue berries.
Site preference
Prefers protected position in moist, well-drained soil and semi-shade. Tolerates frost. Resents extended wet periods.
Characteristics
Hardy. Long-lived once established. Susceptible to heavy grazing.
Flowering
Pale blue flowers with orange or yellow anthers, Sep-Feb.
Seed collection
Late Dec to mid Jan when ripe berries pale blue. Seeds remain viable for 6-12 months.
Propagation
From seed (preferably fresh); by division (which is easy), or from aerial growths. Remove fleshy fruit from seeds before sowing by soaking in sugary solution.
Wildlife
Good habitat. Seed-eating birds attracted to berries.
Koori
Tough leaves yield silky fibre which Kooris used for baskets and cord.
Ornamental
Attractive ornamental for rockeries, groundcover, mingling with small shrubs, containers and under trees.
Other
Edible fruit tasty.