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IIIFolio · plant profile№ 5AD8edible
Data provenancePermapeopleTreflePFAFPOWOreviewed 17 Oct 2026methodology → read

Blue Grass Lily

Caesia vittata
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Caesia vittata (Blue Grass Lily) — botanical photograph
Pl. 5AD8 — Caesia vittata
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Overview

Blue Grass Lily (Caesia vittata) is a perennial plant native to the eastern and southern regions of Australia, including New South Wales, Queensland, and Tasmania. This lily thrives in moist environments with light soil types—ranging from sandy to heavy clay—and requires full sun exposure for optimal growth. Known for its edible roots, which can be harvested for culinary use, this plant is both ornamental and useful as a food source. The Blue Grass Lily typically reaches a height of 0.6 meters, making it an attractive addition to gardens or natural landscapes in suitable climates. The roots are dug up and can be eaten raw or cooked, or dried for later use. While the plant is not medicinal, it is important to exercise caution when consuming any wild plants, as proper identification is crucial to avoid potential toxicity.

Quick answers

What is Blue Grass Lily?

Blue Grass Lily (Caesia vittata) is a perennial plant native to the eastern and southern regions of Australia, including New South Wales, Queensland, and Tasmania. This lily thrives in moist environments with light soil types—ranging from sandy to heavy clay—and requires full sun exposure for optimal growth.

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
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Cultivation

Blue Grass Lily thrives in full sun and prefers moist, well-draining soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This perennial grows to about 0.6 meters tall and is hardy in temperate regions. Propagate via root division for best results. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist but avoid waterlogged conditions.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
0.6 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Blue Grass Lily for the first time

8steps

Start with Blue Grass Lily as a simple, low-maintenance perennial for your garden.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    A small plant or seeds, a trowel, and water.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring when the soil is moist but not waterlogged.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Ensure the soil is well-draining with plenty of organic matter. For containers, use a mix of light, medium, and heavy soils.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Transplant young plants or sow seeds directly into the ground at a depth of about 1 cm.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Keep the soil consistently moist. Water daily until the plant is established.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Provide full sun and light shade as needed.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune dead leaves to maintain a neat appearance but avoid cutting into the root zone.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil without drainage, neglecting to provide enough light, and not protecting from extreme heat.

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Edible & utility

Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The Blue Grass Lily's root is edible and can be prepared in various ways. Typically, the roots are dug up and eaten raw or cooked. They can also be dried for later use.
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

4 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across0 continents· 4 native
Broader regions
native:New South Wales, Queensland, Tasmania, Western Australia
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Caesia vittata (Blue Grass Lily) — botanical photograph
Blue Grass Lily (Caesia vittata)
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Explore further

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