How to Grow Variegated Flax Lily
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Variegated Flax Lily
Dianella caerulea 'Variegata'
grassVariegated Flax Lily is an attractive ornamental grass-like perennial with slender, arching foliage striped with cream and green. It produces delicate blue to purple flowers followed by decorative blue berries. This Australian native is prized for its year-round foliage color and low-maintenance growing requirements.
When should you plant Variegated Flax Lily in your zone?
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Example Variegated Flax Lily timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Variegated 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 Variegated Flax Lily
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Variegated Flax Lily dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 8-11, tolerates zone 7b with protection
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Get my Variegated Flax Lily timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
3-6 monthsYoung plant with thin variegated foliage, slowly developing clump structure
Water regularly to establish deep root system; provide afternoon shade in hot climates during first year; mulch around base to retain moisture
Vegetative Growth
6-12 monthsFoliage expands into fuller clump with distinctive cream and green striped leaves; plant spreads slowly outward
Maintain consistent moisture; apply balanced fertilizer in spring; remove any all-green or all-cream revertant shoots; deadhead spent flowers if desired for tidiness
Flowering
4-8 weeksDelicate blue, purple, or violet flowers appear on thin stems above foliage in late spring to summer
Light feeding with balanced or low-nitrogen fertilizer to encourage blooms; keep foliage dry to prevent fungal issues; maintain adequate water during flowering
Fruiting & Ornamental Berries
4-6 monthsSmall, metallic blue berries develop after flowers fade, persisting on plant for months and providing winter interest
Do not deadhead if berry display is desired; berries attract birds; reduce watering slightly as plant transitions to dormancy
Dormancy/Winter
3-4 monthsGrowth slows; foliage remains ornamental and variegation intensifies; plant tolerates cool temperatures but may be damaged below 25°F (-4°C)
Minimize watering; do not fertilize; in zone 7b, provide mulch or shelter; prune out any winter-damaged foliage in spring
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase humidity; spray with water or insecticidal soap; ensure adequate ventilation
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Inspect regularly; remove with soft brush; apply neem oil or horticultural oil in spring
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and
Remove debris for hiding spots; use copper tape barriers; apply slug bait if necessary
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Improve air circulation; water at base only, not on foliage; remove affected leaves; apply fungicide if severe
Uses
Edible Berries
CulinaryThe blue berries are edible and have been used traditionally by Australian Aboriginals. They have a mild, slightly sweet flavor and can be eaten fresh or used in jams. [source]
Ornamental Foliage & Cut Flowers
HouseholdVariegated foliage adds color and texture to gardens year-round, and stems with flowers or berries create attractive fresh or dried arrangements for indoor decoration. [source]
Bird Habitat & Food Source
WildlifeThe persistent berries attract native birds and other wildlife, making it an excellent plant for ecological gardens and supporting local fauna. [source]
Dried Floral Design
CraftFoliage and berry stems dry well and are used in floral craft projects, wreaths, and decorative arrangements. [source]
Traditional Aboriginal Medicine
MedicinalIndigenous Australians traditionally used various Dianella species for medicinal purposes, though modern medicinal applications are limited; primarily valued today as ornamental. [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 a harvest plant; grown ornamentally. Cut foliage for arrangements in summer when flowers are fresh. Collect berries in fall for indoor displays or to propagate new plants from seed.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The common name 'Flax Lily' refers to the plant's flax-like foliage, though it is not related to true flax (Linum); it is a member of the Dianellaceae family, native to Australia
- 🌱 The metallic blue berries are particularly attractive to birds and can remain on the plant for many months, providing winter color and food for wildlife
- 🌱 Variegated cultivars occasionally revert to solid green foliage; removing these revertant shoots promptly helps maintain the plant's distinctive striped appearance
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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