Flax lily (Dianella tasmanica 'Variegata')

Overview

Dianella tasmanica ‘Variegata’, commonly known as Flax lily, provides fantastic vertical texture and reliable structure to the garden, especially valued for its stunning white and green striped foliage. This herbaceous perennial thrives in protected locations, offering year-round interest where its form catches the light. As a slow-spreading plant utilizing creeping rhizomes, it gradually fills space, making it an excellent, durable accent.

The Flax lily is prized for its low commitment; it handles periods of dryness once established and requires minimal input once properly situated. While the species Dianella tasmanica produces reliable blue flowers and berries, the ‘Variegata’ cultivar focuses more heavily on the ornamental display of its variegated leaves, though it may bloom with small blue flowers.

For gardeners managing deer pressure or seeking drought-tolerant groundcovers for partially shaded spots, Dianella tasmanica ‘Variegata’ is a superior choice. Its ability to tolerate poor, dry soils once matured simplifies maintenance plans, cementing its role as a dependable perennial bedrock in suitable climates.

Fast Facts

• Plant Family: Asphodelaceae
• Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 9-11
• Size at Maturity:
  • Height: 1.5-2 ft
  • Spread: 2-3 ft
• Bloom Time: February to April
• Bloom Description: Blue
• Sun Exposure: Part shade
• Water Needs: Dry to medium
• Maintenance Level: Low

How to Grow

Plant Dianella tasmanica ‘Variegata’ in average, well-draining soils. While tolerant of various conditions, it performs best when placed where it receives part shade, offering protection from intense afternoon sun which can scorch the foliage. Ensure the planting location offers consistent moisture initially until the rhizomes become established.

Maintenance for the Flax lily is generally low. Watering needs transition quickly from moderate needs during establishment to tolerating dry to medium conditions thereafter, reflecting its drought tolerance. Minimal fertilization is usually required; avoid heavy feeding which is unnecessary for this hardy species.

In colder sections of its range (Zone 8, where hardiness is limited), expect Dianella tasmanica ‘Variegata’ to potentially die back during hard freezes. Gardeners should prune away any dead foliage in early spring, allowing the plant to readily regrow from its robust root system. In warmer zones (9-11), it generally remains evergreen. Divide overgrown clumps easily during the growing season if propagation is desired or if the plant becomes overcrowded.

Landscape Uses

The structure and color contrast offered by Dianella tasmanica ‘Variegata’ make it immensely valuable in xeriscaping and contemporary mixed borders. Its upright, strap-like variegated leaves bring essential vertical interest to areas where color is muted, such as under the canopy of established trees. Use it where ground cover is needed but you desire something more architectural than sprawling groundcovers.

This Flax lily is excellent for mass plantings to soften hardscaping edges or define pathways where its slow, reliable spread will eventually create a dense, low swath of pattern. Because of its moderate size, it also performs beautifully as an anchor plant in medium to large container groupings, providing consistent foliage contrast against flowering annuals.

Consider pairing Dianella tasmanica ‘Variegata’ with plants that appreciate similar dry shade conditions, such as Liriope, Mondo Grass, or various dwarf ferns. Its drought tolerance makes it a dependable partner for robust, low-water perennials.

Standout Features

Fruit Qualities

• Showy

Noteworthy Characteristics

Dianella tasmanica, also known as Tasman flax lily or simply flax lily, is a sedge-like, rhizomatous, herbaceous perennial native to Tasmania and southeastern Australia. The ‘Variegata’ cultivar is particularly valued for its striking white and green variegated foliage, setting it apart from the standard green form. Its flowers are small and bluish, and while the species forms reliable steely blue berries, fruiting in this cultivar is often less consistent.

Tolerances

• Deer
• Drought

Potential Problems

While highly robust, Dianella tasmanica ‘Variegata’ can occasionally suffer from common fungal issues. Powdery mildew and various leaf spot diseases have been reported, particularly in situations with poor air circulation or high ambient humidity.

Prevention is key for managing these minor issues. Ensure adequate spacing between plants to promote airflow, aligning with the general need for well-draining soil. If fungal spots appear, prune out the heavily infected leaves promptly and apply an appropriate fungicide if the outbreak is severe, though these issues are rarely fatal to established Flax lily plants.

Frequently Asked Questions

What hardiness zones is Flax lily suitable for?

Dianella tasmanica ‘Variegata’ is reliably hardy in USDA Zones 9 through 11. Gardeners should exercise caution in Zone 8, as winter dieback may occur.

How large does Dianella tasmanica ‘Variegata’ grow?

This perennial typically reaches a height between 1.5 and 2 feet tall with a spread ranging from 2 to 3 feet wide at maturity.

What sun exposure does Dianella tasmanica ‘Variegata’ need?

This specialty Flax lily performs best when situated in part shade. It should be protected from the harshest afternoon sun exposure.

When does Dianella tasmanica ‘Variegata’ bloom?

When flowering occurs, the small blue blooms typically appear from February to April.

Conclusion

The Flax lily, specifically Dianella tasmanica ‘Variegata’, offers essential, low-maintenance beauty through its distinctive, variegated foliage year-round in appropriate climates. Its drought tolerance and resistance to deer make it a practical fixture for difficult landscape spots. Before planting, ensure your site falls within USDA Zones 9-11 for the best long-term reliability.

Companion Planting

When selecting partners for Dianella tasmanica ‘Variegata’, focus on plants that share its preference for part shade and low to medium moisture needs. Pairing it with plants that offer contrasting textures, such as fine-leaved ferns or mounding groundcovers, enhances the visual impact of the flax lily’s vertical structure. Consider incorporating hardy Hakonechloa (Japanese Forest Grass) nearby for a soft, mounding counterpoint near the base.

Another excellent strategy involves using low-growing evergreen shrubs or sedges that also thrive in dry, shady retreats. Plants like mondo grass (Ophiopogon) or Mondo Grass species provide a dark, matte backdrop that allows the bright variegation of the Flax lily to truly pop, creating depth in shaded borders.

Propagation Tips

Propagation of Dianella tasmanica ‘Variegata’ is straightforward, relying primarily on division. Since the plant spreads via creeping rhizomes beneath the soil surface, it is easily managed by sectioning the clumps. Wait until spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing, and carefully dig up an entire clump using a sharp spade or garden fork.

Gently tease sections apart, ensuring each new division retains a healthy cluster of roots and a few growing points (leaf crowns). Replant these divisions immediately into prepared soil in their new locations, providing consistent moisture until new root development is confirmed. This division method helps rejuvenate older clumps and quickly multiplies your stock of this sought-after variegated foliage plant.