About
Dianella intermedia, turutu, is a clump-forming, rhizomatous, evergreen perennial from New Zealand with sword-like leaves and branching sprays of small, starry flowers followed by blue-purple berries. A reliable and ornamental evergreen perennial for a sheltered, partly shaded border in a mild garden.
About the genus
Dianella are rhizomatous, evergreen perennials with leathery, sword-shaped leaves and sprays of small, starry blue flowers followed by long-lasting blue or purple berries. Popular as clump-forming ground-cover plants in mild gardens and as container plants.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, City and courtyard gardens
Native toJapan
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationGrow in fertile, moist soil in sun or partial shade. Protect from late spring frosts
PruningPruning group 2
PropagationPropagate by softwood cuttings in summer
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus