How to Grow Black Anther Flax Lily
iNaturalist
Black Anther Flax Lily
Dianella revoluta
grassDianella revoluta is an evergreen perennial grass-like plant native to Australia, featuring strappy dark green foliage and delicate blue flowers with distinctive black anthers. It produces ornamental blue berries after flowering and is valued for its year-round structure and low-maintenance requirements. This hardy plant is excellent for borders, rock gardens, and modern landscape designs.
When should you plant Black Anther Flax Lily in your zone?
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Example Black Anther Flax Lily timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Black Anther Flax Lily
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Black Anther Flax Lily
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 8b-11; tolerates zone 8a with protection
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Get my Black Anther Flax Lily timeline →Growth Stages
Vegetative Growth
6-12 monthsPlant expands, developing dense clumps of upright green foliage reaching mature height
Minimal fertilizer needed. Remove any dead or damaged leaves. Begin reducing water in drier climates.
Flowering
4-8 weeks (spring-summer)Delicate panicles of small blue flowers with black anthers appear above foliage
Ensure adequate moisture during bloom. Flowers attract pollinators. No deadheading necessary.
Fruiting
8-12 weeksFlowers develop into ornamental bright blue berries on drooping stems
Allow berries to remain for visual interest and wildlife food. Berries last several weeks before darkening.
Dormancy/Rest
3-4 months (winter)Foliage persists but growth slows significantly in cooler months
Reduce watering substantially. Remove any diseased or damaged foliage. Minimal intervention needed.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use neem oil if severe. Improve air circulation around plant.
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Prune affected stems; treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap in early season.
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and
Hand-pick in early morning; apply copper tape barriers; use organic slug baits if needed.
Uses
Edible Berries
CulinaryThe blue berries are edible and have been used traditionally by Australian Aboriginal peoples. They can be eaten fresh or used in jams and cordials, though they are primarily enjoyed for ornamental value. [source]
Ornamental Foliage and Cut Flowers
HouseholdThe strappy foliage and delicate blue flowers with black anthers are excellent for floral arrangements and garden displays. The lasting blue berries extend the ornamental appeal through seasons. [source]
Native Plant for Wildlife Support
WildlifeDianella revoluta supports native Australian birds and insects with its flowers and berries as food sources. The dense foliage provides shelter and nesting material for small wildlife. [source]
Dried Arrangements and Floristry
CraftThe blue berries dry exceptionally well and are prized in dried flower and botanical arrangements. Foliage also dries successfully for long-lasting display pieces. [source]
Traditional Aboriginal Medicine
MedicinalTraditional Aboriginal cultures have used various Dianella species for medicinal purposes, though modern therapeutic applications remain limited. Research continues into potential health benefits. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Not typically harvested, but berries can be collected for dried arrangements or propagation. Collect mature blue berries in late summer by gently stripping from stems. Use pruning shears to cut foliage for ornamental use.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Dianella revoluta is native to southeastern Australia and gets its common name 'Black Anther Flax Lily' from the distinctive black anthers of its flowers, which provide striking contrast against the blue petals.
- 🌱 The bright blue berries are particularly attractive to Australian birds, which helps disperse seeds naturally and makes this plant an excellent choice for wildlife gardens.
- 🌱 Despite being grass-like in appearance, Dianella is not a true grass but rather a member of the Asphodelaceae family (formerly Liliaceae), making it technically a flowering plant with ornamental foliage.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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