Agapanthus africanus (African Lily)

Agapanthus africanus (African Lily) is an evergreen perennial with showy rounded clusters of funnel-shaped blue flowers in early to mid-summer. They rise on stiff, upright stalks atop a dense clump of narrow, strap-shaped, linear, grass-like leaves.

Agapanthus africanus (African Lily) is an evergreen perennial with showy rounded clusters of funnel-shaped blue flowers in early to mid-summer. They rise on stiff, upright stalks atop a dense clump of narrow, strap-shaped, linear, grass-like leaves. The foliage remains attractive when the plant is not in bloom.

  • Easy to grow, pest and disease free, this African Lily is quite vigorous and grows up to 2-3 ft. tall (60-90 cm).
  • Thrives in full sun in fertile, moist, and well-drained soil. In a hot climate area, Agapanthus will do better in partial shade. Bear in mind that most varieties will lean toward the sun, which makes a south-facing border the best location. Do not allow plants to dry out except when dormant.
  • Spectacular when planted in great swathes, this Agapanthus fits most garden settings or mixed borders, makes a fantastic accent plant in containers, and has excellent cut flowers! A great choice for coastal areas as African Lilies cope well with windy and salty air.
  • Deer and rabbit resistant, it attracts butterflies, bees, and birds.
  • In late fall remove or tidy up any remaining leaves, but seedheads can be left as they look attractive over winter.
  • Propagate by division every three to four years in spring.
  • Agapanthus africanus is native to Southern Africa.
  • African Lilies are poisonous and should not be consumed by humans and pets.

Requirements

Hardiness 8
– 10

Heat Zones 1
– 12

Climate Zones 6, 7, 8, 9, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, H1, H2
Plant Type Perennials
Plant Family Agapanthus – African Lilies
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Summer (Early,Mid)
Height 2'
– 3'
(60cm
– 90cm)
Spread 3'
– 4'
(90cm
– 120cm)
Spacing 12″
– 18″
(30cm
– 45cm)
Depth 2"
(5cm)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained
Characteristics Cut Flowers, Fragrant, Showy, Evergreen
Tolerance Deer, Rabbit, Salt
Attracts Bees, Birds, Butterflies, Hummingbirds
Garden Uses Beds and Borders, Edging, Patio and Containers, Wall-Side Borders
Garden Styles City and Courtyard, Coastal Garden, Gravel and Rock Garden, Mediterranean Garden