Flax Lily

Flax lily is a clumping, evergreen Dianella with long, sword-shaped leaves, delicate flower spikes, and glossy blue-purple berries. It provides year-round foliage texture in warm-climate borders and containers, with flowers that can be white or bluish and berries that attract birds. ### Form and seasonal interest The [NParks Flora & Fauna Web profile](https://www.nparks.gov.sg/florafaunaweb/flora/5/1/5194) identifies Dianella ensifolia as a perennial herb with a creeping rhizome and flowering stems that can reach 1.8 metres. Its flowers open along panicles, and glossy deep-blue berries follow; the source notes that the fruit is thought to be toxic, so treat it as ornamental and do not eat it. The species is evergreen and has a broad tropical distribution. ### Growing conditions NParks lists full sun to semi-shade, moderate watering, and moist, well-drained, fertile loamy soils. The plant is used in parks and gardens and can also be grown in containers. Its foliage and fruit form a useful contrast with fine-textured grasses and broad-leaved perennials. ## Maintenance Water while establishing and during prolonged dry weather, keeping the root zone well drained. Divide clumps or grow from seed to propagate, and remove old leaves as needed for a tidy display.