Beach Flax Lily (Dianella congesta)

At a glance

Lifecycle: Perennial (hardy)
Exposure: Full sun

Cultivation

We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it could succeed outdoors at least in the milder areas of the country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Succeeds in ordinary garden soil in sun or dappled shade. Most members of this genus are not very cold-tolerant, but some can survive in sheltered stable environments in dappled shade, such as a woodland, if temperatures do not drop far below zero for long periods.

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.

Edible uses

Fruit - raw or cooked. The best tasting of the genus.

Material uses

A very strong silky fibre is obtained from the leaves. The leaves are also used in making baskets. Judging by the plants native habit, this should be a good plant for stabilizing sand dunes[K].

Habitat

Stabilized coastal sand dunes, forming mats in gregarious colonies that are often extensive

Native range

Australia - New South Wales, Queensland.