Description
The Australian Tufted Blue Lily, (Thelionema caespitosum), is a perennial herb with long slender leaves (20 – 90mm) that display 6 petal star shaped blue flowers with an average 25mm diameter. Flowering occurs from early spring to summer.
Its scientific name is derived from the Greek thelion, teat or nipple and nema, a thread, referring to the stamen filaments and caespitosum from the Latin caespes, turf or sod and the suffix -osus, plenitude or notable development, referring to the tufted growth habit.
Distribution
Endemic to Australia, the Tufted Blue Lily finds its home in a variety of ecotypes, from coastal heathlands to mountainous areas. It is quite adaptable and can be found from sub-tropical Queensland to temperate Victoria and Tasmania, preferring sunny exposure and sandy well drained soils.
Propagation
Propagation of Tufted Blue-Lily can be achieved in two ways; sowing seeds or dividing existing clumps.
After collection, seeds are best sown in well-draining soil with adequate sunlight, mimicking the natural conditions of its native habitat.
Alternatively, established clumps can be carefully divided and replanted, ensuring each division has sufficient roots.
Australian Native Plant Society
