Variegated Flax Lily

Variegated Flax Lily, Dianella tasmanica 'Variegata', is a clumping evergreen perennial from southeastern Australia and Tasmania grown for its grass-like foliage. Flat, glossy, strap-shaped leaves are striped and edged white, and small light blue flowers with prominent yellow stamens are followed by blue to violet berries. It works as a groundcover, border or accent plant. Plant it in sun or part shade in well-drained soil, and water it through long dry spells; it is drought tolerant once established. It is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11, staying evergreen into the mid-20s Fahrenheit, dying back in harder freezes and regrowing from the roots in spring. Clumps reach 1 to 3 feet tall and wide. Flowers appear winter through spring in Florida and later in cooler regions. The berries are ornamental and should not be eaten. 'Variegata' differs from the plain green species in its white-striped leaves.