Family:
Asphodeliaceae
Dianella revoluta
Spreading Flax-lily
Other Names: Black-anther Flax-lily, Murmbal
Regional Subspecies:
Dianella revoluta var. revoluta
Occurrence:
Regional:
In most areas of region. Less common in higher rainfall areas.
Habitat & Site Selection:
Sclerophyll forest, woodland and mallee. Hardy. Long-lived once established. Prefers protected position in moist, well-drained soil in semi-shade. Tolerates frost and drought. Resents extended wet periods.
Habit:
Tufted perennial herb to 1 m high, forming mats with fibrous roots. Strap-like leaves to 85 cm long and dark blue or violet flowers with black anthers, chiefly spring-summer.
Seed Collection:
Late Dec to mid Jan when ripe berries pale blue. Seeds remain viable for 6-12 months.
Propagation:
From fresh seed; by division (which is easy), or from aerial growths. Hasten germination by removing fleshy fruit from seed and ferment by soaking in sugary solution.
VALUES:
Wildlife:
Good habitat. Seed-eating birds attracted to berries.
First Nations:
Tough leaves yield silky fibre which was used for baskets and cord.
Ornamental:
Attractive ornamental for rockeries, groundcover, mingling with small shrubs, containers and under trees.
Other:
Edible fruit tasty.