turutu

Dianella nigra | turutu, New Zealand blueberry, inkberry

 

A hardy native known for its lush, strap-like, glossy green foliage and eye-catching berries that range from blue to white to deep purple. This flax-like plant typically grows to 40 cm tall and 50 cm wide. It's a versatile choice for mixed plantings, borders, cottage gardens, or mass planting as a groundcover on banks. While preferring moist shade, it's surprisingly tolerant of both dry conditions and full sun, making it a worthy native alternative to Australian Dianella cultivars. Its showy purple berries are a highlight from summer through autumn.

NOTE | While visually appealing and a food source for birds, these berries are poisonous and not safe for human consumption. Please consider this when planting, especially in areas accessible to children.

coastal forest

lowland forest

montane forest

coastal scrub

moist

well drained

full sun

full shade

partial shade

height | 40cm

width | 50cm

flowering | November - December

fruiting | December - May 

Historically, Māori utilised the berries to create a blue dye, possibly for tattooing like tā moko, and its vibrant colour may have given the plant sacred status. Though less common than flax, its fibrous leaves were sometimes used for weaving small items.