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dianella nigra nz

Dianella nigra NZ, commonly known as New Zealand Blueberry or turutu, is a striking native plant treasured for its glossy green leaves, delicate star-shaped flowers, and bright blue berries. It’s a favourite among Kiwi gardeners for its year-round interest, tough nature, and ability to bring a splash of colour to shady or exposed spots. Whether you’re creating a native garden, planting beneath canopy trees, or searching for an easy-care edging plant, Dianella nigra NZ offers both beauty and function in one low-maintenance package.

Dianella nigra (New Zealand Blueberry)

5 from 2 customers

New Zealand Blueberry, Tūrutu, Inkberry

Dianella nigra, commonly known as the New Zealand Blueberry or Tūrutu, is a NZ native that features lush foliage and glossy berries that vary in colour from blue, white, to deep purple. They are held amidst the strap-like, glossy green leaves. Dianella nigra typically grows to 40 cm tall and 50 cm wide, and is commonly included in a mixed planting or border, used in cottage gardens, or mass planted either on a bank or as a groundcover.

Dianella nigra plant with masses of blue berries.
  • Suited to regions:
    All regions
  • Plant type:
    Flaxes
  • Height:
    40 cm
  • Spread:
    50 cm
  • Flowering time:
    Spring
  • Tolerances:
    Coastal, Hardy, Shade
  • Garden uses:
    Borders, Paths & Steps, Ponds
  • Garden styles:
    Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Modern, Native
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Dianella nigra (New Zealand Blueberry)

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Why Choose Dianella nigra NZ for Your Garden?

Dianella nigra NZ stands out as an adaptable and resilient choice for gardens across the country. Its sword-shaped leaves form graceful clumps, providing excellent textural contrast among other natives like Phormium tenax 'Green' (Harakeke) or Phormium 'Emerald Green'. During spring and early summer, Dianella nigra produces dainty blue flowers held aloft on wiry stems, soon followed by clusters of metallic-blue berries that are irresistible to native birds.

This plant thrives in a wide range of soil types, from sandy coastal gardens to moist bush areas. Evergreen and tolerant of light frost, wind, and dry periods once established, it’s well-suited to the unpredictable New Zealand climate. Dianella nigra NZ is also perfect for mass planting, erosion control, or as a tidy border in both urban and rural landscapes.

Planting Tips and Care

Dianella nigra NZ is simple to grow, making it ideal for novice and experienced gardeners alike. For best results, plant in well-drained soil in partial shade to full sun. While this species will handle dry conditions once established, it appreciates some moisture in the first season and occasional mulching during dry spells.

Pruning isn’t essential but removing older leaves at ground level will keep the plant looking tidy. Dianella nigra NZ rarely falls victim to pests or diseases, adding to its low-effort appeal. If you love the look of Dianella nigra, explore even more hardy, colourful options in the genus: - Dianella 'Little Jess' features compact size and tidy foliage, ideal for borders and pots. - Dianella 'Little Rev' is perfect for modern gardens with its stiff blue-grey stems. - Dianella Blaze adds a punch of bronze and purple colouring. - Dianella Goddess thrives in shade and features subtle blue flowers. - Dianella Kentlyn delivers lush green foliage and tolerance to a range of conditions. - Dianella Cherry Red stands out for its vibrant new growth.

Beautiful Companions for Dianella nigra NZ

Pairing Dianella nigra with other NZ native favourites creates spectacular contrasts and supports biodiversity. Try mixing with Phormium 'Red Dwarf' for fiery foliage or Xeronema callistemon (Poor Knights Lily) for bold, architectural blooms. These combinations add year-round structure, colour, and habitat value to your landscape.

Add a True Native Gem to Your Garden

Whether you’re rewilding a large section or seeking a low-fuss accent plant, Dianella nigra NZ delivers stunning results and welcomes New Zealand’s unique wildlife into your space. Browse our range of hardy, colourful flaxes and Dianellas to craft your perfect garden palette, and enjoy the serene beauty only native plants can offer.


Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

It’s easy to pick Photinia 'Red Robin' and Ficus pumila (Creeping Fig), but garden variety is all about adding surprises like Macadamia 'GT205', Callisia repens, and Hemerocallis Encore (Encore Daylily).
–The Plant Company

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