Common Name: Spreading Flax Lily

General Information

Dianella revoluta is a very variable, evergreen perennial plant with a rhizomatous rootstock, it forms a clump of grass-like leaves, sometimes spreading to form a mat of growth; it can grow up to 90cm tall[].
The plant is harvested from the wild for local use as a food and source of materials.

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

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Range

Australia - Tasmania, Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia and southern Western Australia

Habitat

Sandy soils near creeks on heaths and in sparse woodlands. Found in a variety of habitats, but avoiding very arid and very wet habitats[].

Properties

Edibility Rating
Other Uses Rating
Habit	Evergreen Perennial
Height	0.75 m
Cultivation Status	Wild

Cultivation Details

Dianella revoluta has a wide range, from the temperate climate of Tasmania, north through eastern Australia to the subtropics of Queensland. Plants are said to tolerate occasional temperatures down to at least -7°c in Australian gardens[]. Although not very cold-tolerant, in cooler parts of the temperate zone this species can possibly survive in sheltered stable environments in dappled shade, such as a woodland, if temperatures do not drop far below zero for long periods[].
Succeeds in ordinary garden soil in sun or dappled shade[]. Requires a well-drained neutral to acid soil[]. Requires a sunny sheltered position when grown outdoors in Britain[].

Edible Uses

Fruit - raw or cooked[] The fruit is up to 15mm in diameter[].

The white leaf base might be edible[].

Medicinal

None known

Other Uses

A very strong silky fibre is obtained from the leaves. The leaves are also used in making baskets[].

Propagation

Seed - pre-soak for 24 hours in luke-warm water and then sow in spring in gentle heat in a greenhouse. Germination usually takes place within 1 - 3 months at 25°c[]. When large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first two years. When large enough, plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer.
Division as the plants come into growth in the spring[]. Larger clumps can be replanted direct into their permanent positions, though it is best to pot up smaller clumps and grow them on in a cold frame until they are rooting well. Plant them out in the spring.