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new zealand flax lily

The New Zealand flax lily is a versatile and low-maintenance addition to any Kiwi garden, prized for its strappy foliage, tolerant nature, and striking visual appeal. Often mistaken for the classic flax (Phormium), the true New Zealand flax lily belongs to the Dianella genus, featuring graceful tufts of narrow leaves and delicate blue or white flowers followed by attractive berries. Because of its reliability in a range of conditions, the New Zealand flax lily is a favourite among landscape designers, home gardeners, and anyone seeking an easy-care, evergreen solution that works well in borders, mass plantings, or pots.

Dianella tasmanica (Tasman Flax Lily) plants with green foliage and blue flowers.

Dianella tasmanica

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Dianella tasmanica, commonly known as the Tasman Flax Lily, produces upright, strap-like leaves which are a rich, dark green and have a lush appearance. Flower stems rise above the foliage through spring to bear masses of delicate, blue flowers, which result in blue berries.

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Flaxes
Height: 1.00 m
Spread: 1.00 m
Flowering time: Spring, Summer
Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy
Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Living areas, Paths & Steps, Pool areas
Garden styles: Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern
dianella-revoluta-kentlyn--2

Dianella 'Kentlyn'

Dianella 'Kentlyn' is a hardy evergreen flax lily valued for its graceful arching blue green foliage that provides year round colour and texture. Delicate blue flowers appear during spring and early summer, followed by attractive blue berries that extend the seasonal display.

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Flaxes
Height: 60 cm
Spread: 40 cm
Flowering time: Spring
Tolerances: Extended dry periods, Wet
Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Living areas, Paths & Steps, Ponds, Pool areas
Garden styles: Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Mediterranean, Modern
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Dianella tasmanica

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Dianella, and Phormium, or related Categories - Flaxes.

Search new zealand flax lily

What is the New Zealand Flax Lily?

The plant commonly called New Zealand flax lily typically refers to species and cultivars within the Dianella genus. These robust perennials thrive in coastal areas as well as inland gardens across New Zealand, demanding little more than well-drained soil and occasional watering once established. Some of the most popular varieties include Dianella Goddess, known for its lush, arching foliage and small, starry flowers, and compact forms like Dianella 'Little Jess' and Dianella 'Little Rev', both ideal for edging, rockeries, and small spaces.

Benefits and Uses in the Garden

Incorporating a New Zealand flax lily into your landscaping scheme brings year-round texture and soft movement to your garden beds. These tough, adaptable plants are remarkably resistant to drought, wind, and frost, making them a reliable choice in both urban and rural settings. Use them as an underplanting beneath trees, in mixed perennial beds, or mass planted for a striking ground cover. Their blue or violet berries add a touch of colour in autumn, and the foliage can range from blue-green to deep green depending on the variety.

For those looking to combine different leaf forms and colours, New Zealand flax lilies beautifully complement larger flaxes such as Phormium tenax or variegated options like Phormium 'Stripy Mist', creating a lush, layered effect in your garden.

Care Tips for New Zealand Flax Lily

One of the main reasons Kiwi gardeners love the New Zealand flax lily is its easy-care nature. Plant in free-draining soil and water regularly until established. After that, these plants cope well with dry periods and require only occasional trimming to remove spent flower stems or tidy old leaves. They grow well in full sun to part shade, and their resilience makes them an excellent choice for both formal and naturalistic planting styles.

If you’re searching for a stylish, hardy, and low-fuss perennial, look no further than the New Zealand flax lily or check out selection of varieties like Dianella Goddess, Dianella 'Little Jess', and Dianella 'Little Rev'. Pair with classic flaxes for maximum impact in your outdoor space.


Whether you’re refreshing a border, designing a modern courtyard or seeking fuss-free ground covers, the New Zealand flax lily offers the style, strength, and adaptability every New Zealand gardener needs.


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There’s more to explore beyond Lomandra 'Tanika' and Lomandra Frosty Tops — like the subtle beauty of Ilex 'Sky Pencil', Photinia 'Black Jack', and Gaura 'Steffi Blush Pink'.
–The Plant Company

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