How to Grow Black Anther Flax Lily
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Black Anther Flax Lily
Dianella revoluta
grassDianella revoluta is a native Australian evergreen perennial grass with strap-like, glossy dark green foliage that forms dense clumps. It produces delicate lavender to purple flowers in late spring followed by ornamental bright blue berries. This hardy, low-maintenance plant is valued for its year-round foliage interest and distinctive fruit.
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
Around Sep 14≈ 150 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9-11, tolerates zone 8b with protection
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Establishment
2-3 monthsYoung plants develop their characteristic strap-like foliage in compact clumps. New shoots emerge from rhizomes.
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide afternoon shade in hot climates. Protect from harsh winds.
Vegetative Growth
3-6 monthsClumps expand with new foliage emerging continuously. Plant forms a dense, fountain-like mound of dark green leaves.
Reduce watering frequency as drought tolerance increases. Fertilize sparingly in spring. Remove any dead or damaged foliage.
Flowering
4-8 weeks (late spring to early summer)Delicate panicles of tiny lavender to purple flowers appear on thin stems above the foliage. Flowers are short-lived but profuse.
Flowers attract pollinators. No deadheading necessary unless you want to redirect energy to berry production. Ensure adequate water during bloom.
Fruiting
3-4 months (summer through fall)Flowers are replaced by distinctive bright cobalt-blue berries that persist on the plant. Berries are highly ornamental and attract birds.
Leave berries on plant for maximum ornamental effect and to feed wildlife. Berries can self-seed; deadhead if you prefer to prevent volunteers.
Dormancy/Winter
3-4 monthsFoliage remains evergreen and attractive. Growth slows significantly in winter months.
Minimal watering required. In zone 8b, mulch around base for frost protection. No pruning needed unless tidying up frost-damaged tips.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Remove by hand, use copper tape barriers, apply organic slug baits, encourage natural predators
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Increase humidity, spray with water, use neem oil or miticide in severe cases
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Prune infested stems, spray with horticultural oil, remove manually with stiff brush
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Improve air circulation, remove affected foliage, avoid overhead watering, apply fungicide if severe
Uses
Cut flowers and floral arrangements
HouseholdThe delicate purple flowers and structural foliage make attractive additions to fresh or dried floral arrangements. The blue berries add decorative interest to floral designs. [source]
Bird food and habitat
WildlifeThe bright blue berries are highly attractive to native birds and wildlife. The dense foliage provides shelter and nesting sites for small birds and insects. [source]
Landscape ornamentation
HouseholdYear-round evergreen foliage, delicate flowers, and striking blue berries make this an excellent ornamental specimen. Ideal for modern, native, and drought-tolerant gardens. [source]
Traditional Aboriginal uses
MedicinalIndigenous Australians traditionally used various Dianella species medicinally and for food. The plant holds cultural significance in native plant restoration. [source]
Native plant cultivation
CraftAs an Australian native, Dianella revoluta is valuable for ecological restoration and xeriscaping projects. Its low maintenance needs make it ideal for sustainable landscaping. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Dianella revoluta is an ornamental plant, not typically harvested for food. Cut foliage can be used in floral arrangements; harvest stems in early morning when fully hydrated. Collect ripe blue berries for seed propagation in fall. Cut flowering stems for bouquets when flowers are fully open but not yet past prime.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The brilliant cobalt-blue berries are so striking and persistent that they remain on the plant through much of the year, providing a reliable food source for native Australian birds, particularly native pigeons and parrots.
- 🌱 Dianella revoluta is one of approximately 40 species in the genus Dianella, which is found primarily in Australia and the South Pacific, with some species present in South Africa and Mediterranean regions.
- 🌱 The common name 'Black Anther Flax Lily' refers to the dark-colored anthers of the flowers and the flax-like appearance of the linear leaves, though despite the name it is not a true flax (Linum) but rather a member of the Asphodelaceae family.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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