Full Sun
Moderate care
Moderate watering
Half-hardy
10a
USDA zone
-1°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
1m | Max | 80cm |
50cm | Min | 30cm |
2 years to reach maturity
Flowering
spring
summer
autumn
winter
This plant has no fragrance
More images of Cape Agapanthus
Cape Agapanthus Overview
Agapanthus africanus is an evergreen, clump-forming perennial, bearing umbels of trumpet-shaped deep blue flowers on long stalks, in summer. Its leaves are narrow, erect and strap-like. One of the smaller agapanthus species, it is native to South Africa where fire or fire smoke is said to stimulate profuse flowering. Also known as the Cape Agapanthus, amongst other names, Agapanthus africanus likes moist, well-drained soil and a sunny position. It needs a sheltered position - away from cold winds and rain - to thrive. A white cultivar - Agapanthus 'Albus' - is also available. ZA Distribution: Western Cape.
Common problems with Cape Agapanthus
Cape Agapanthus Companion Plants
How to harvest Cape Agapanthus
Harvest seeds after flowering (when the capsules have dried out). Cut flower stalks during flower for a beautiful display in a vase.
How to propagate Cape Agapanthus
Seed
Sowing time during autumn - and sow 1.5 times deeper than the seed size. Germination time is less than 2 months.
Division
The best time to lift and divide agapanthus is late March after they have finished flowering. Evergreen varieties should be divided once every four years.
Rhizomes
Lift and divide the rhizomes after flowering in autumn.
Special features of Cape Agapanthus
Attracts useful insects
Attract insects like bees and butterflies.
Attracts birds
Nectar-loving birds visit as well as insect-eating birds that feast on the pollinators!
Pot plant
Easily grows in a good sized pot.
Attractive flowers
Drought resistant
Rhizomes serve to be a valuable water store in dry times.
Attracts butterflies
Attracts bees
Other uses of Cape Agapanthus
Pretty low growing Agapanthus plant to use as edging to borders. A versatile plant which suits a range of sites from urban city courtyards to informal coastal gardens in containers or wall-side borders.
