Dianella callicarpa

Swamp Flax-lily

Densely tufted perennial spreading from short underground stems.

SynonymSeparated from Dianella tasmanica
FamilyAsphodelaceae (syn. Hemerocallidaceae, Liliaceae, Phormiaceae)
StoreyLower storey
Size0.3-1.6 m x 1.5 m
Plant groupingLilies & Irises
LeavesThin, mid to dark green glossy strap leaves 0.3-1.6 m x 8-20 mm, arching downwards. Leaf sheath closely folded and fused. Minutely saw-toothed on margins and midrib on lower surface, especially towards tip.
Flower colourBluish-violet, maroon on the back. Anthers lemon, swollen stamen stalk orange.
Flowering timeAugust to February
FlowersNodding flowers on widely spreading flowerheads to 50 cm long, petals bent back to stem. Berries large, lumpy, glossy purple.
Bird attractingBerries
Butterfly attractingNo
Frog habitatNo
Growing conditionsMoist to wet soils in damp forests of Dandenong Ranges. Dappled shade.
Garden usePlant under trees in moist to wet gardens. Can be grown with ferns. Use as an alternative to Agapanthus in sheltered positions.
Commercially availableNever
Conservation statusRare in Victoria with few known populations. Within the Shire known from one area in the Dandenongs.
Aboriginal Use Leaves - basket making, plaiting into cords
Related speciesDistinguish from D. tasmanica by narrower leaves, less than 2 cm, anther is longer than swollen stalk, flower head is more open and berry is lumpy rather than smooth.