Dianella nigra, the New Zealand Blueberry or New Zealand Flaxlily, is an attractive small grass-like clump-forming flaxlily resembling a miniature Phormium. It has tiny greenish-white flowers borne on long thin stalks that are followed by small ovoid blue-grey or blue-purple berries. Although called New Zealand Blueberry these berries are inedible.
It is found in a wide variety of habitats in its native New Zealand from coastal wetlands and low bush and scrubland through to dense forest. It is fast-growing and forms a low dense clump that is particularly effective when planted in small groups that slowly spread into each other by their rhizomes to form an attractive green grassy mat.
The flowers are tiny, short-lived and often missed and the berries - though attractive and unusual - are also relatively insignificant. It is for its lush strappy grass-like foliage and diminutive clumping habit that it is principally grown.
Additional Information
Order | Asparagales |
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Family | Xanthorrhoeaceae |
Sub-Family | Hemerocallidoideae |
Synonyms | Dianella intermedia, Dianella intermedia var norfolkensis |
Geographical Origin | New Zealand: on both the North and South Islands |
Cultivation | Sun or partial shade. A moist slightly acid soil |
Eventual Height | 40-60 cm |
Eventual Spread | 60cm |
Hardiness | Hardy down to about -5C. Overhang from larger plants and shrubs will give it protection. Can be further protected in winter with a covering of leaves or fleece. In extreme weather the frost may cut it back but it will grow again in the Spring |
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