Full Sun
Easy care
Light watering
Half-hardy
8a-10a
USDA zone
-12°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
---|---|---|
2m | Max | 1.5m |
40cm | Min | 30cm |
2 years to reach maturity
Flowering
spring
summer
autumn
winter
This plant has no fragrance


More images of African Lily
African Lily Overview
Agapanthus is a family of perennial, summer-blooming plants, also known as African Lilies. They typically grow in bushy mounds and have vertical stems bearing umbels of tubular, trumpet or bell-shaped flowers. They range in colour from deep blue to purple, pink or white. Their leaves are long, arching and strap-shaped. Some of the 10 species of African Lilies (also known as the African Blue Lily) are evergreen and are the ones most likely to be seen in coastal areas. These are usually less hardy than their deciduous relatives. Native to Southern Africa, Agapanthus plants are some of its best-known garden plants. Any of its species make a striking floral display in summer, and they are popular as cut flowers. The seedheads - whether left on the plant or dried indoors - are often seen in dried flower arrangements. The African Lily is best grown in full sun and well-draining soil, in borders or containers. Its large clumps of bright or deep green foliage and swaying, colourful 'drumstick' flowers make a dramatic addition to just about any garden. Cold, wet winters are the main enemy of Agapanthus, so mulching in late autumn is a good idea.
Common problems with African Lily
How to harvest African Lily
Seeds to be harvested in autumn when the seed pods have dried out. Flower stalks may be cut for flower arrangements during summer months.
How to propagate African Lily
Rhizomes
Divide the tuberous rhizomes in winter when the plant is dormant.
Division
Divide clusters every four years in winter when the plant is dormant.
Seed
Seeds must be sown fresh in the autumn, or if you are in an area where you receive below freezing temperatures, keep the seeds cool in the fridge and sow in the spring.
Special features of African Lily
Attractive flowers
Attractive clusters of trumpet-shaped flowers
Attracts useful insects
Attracts insects like bees and butterflies.
Attracts birds
Drought resistant
This plant can withstand drought periods, as it fleshy rhizomes store water reserves.
Pot plant
Grows well outdoors in large pots.
Other uses of African Lily
Ornamental, containers, borders.