Dianella tasmanica (Tasmanian Flax-Lily)

The Dianella is ideal as a small Phormium substitute. It has all the bells and whistles of a Phormium but without the imposing giganticness of it, so it's good for a smaller space or planted en masse if you're an inspiring designer.

It's an evergreen, clump forming perennial and can get to over a metre, although they come in various forms so some are a lot smaller. We have an eclectic mix of Dianella on the nursery so there's usually something for everyone, 'Cassa Blue', 'Wyeena' and the mysteriously named 'Tas Red' to name a few.  Flowers are tinkerly and blue, followed by blue or purple berries that look like glass beads. There are some variegated forms too.

We've noticed that they're not entirely hardy when it comes to a tough winter so bear that in mind when you use them and think about putting them in the most protected part of your garden. They like full sunshine ideally but will tolerate partial shade.