Agapanthus ( Agapanthus praecox syn. orientalis) are a popular favourite in many Australian gardens because they are so hardy and adaptable to almost any climate. Agapanthus cope very well with drought and even grow well in the snowy regions! Often this species is seen as a border plant in gardens or along driveways, it is also suitable for growing in pots as a feature for their ornamental value.
Other common names for the Agapanthus praecox are Lily of the Nile, African Lily, or Common Agapanthus. The Agapanthus name is Greek and means ‘Love Flower’.
Growth
The foliage of the Agapanthus is strappy and grows to around 50-60 cm’s in length. During flowering season, tall stems emerge from the centre of the plant, that bear clusters of Blue-purple flowers. These stems can stand up to a metre tall and once in bloom, really are stunning. Often grown alongside the White Agapanthus which shares the same botanical name.
This species can flower from Spring all the way through to early winter in the right spot. Once frosts begin in cooler regions, this will kill off the flower buds and flowering will be over until the following season. However, in warmer climates Agapanthus has been known to flower continuously all year.
Note: Germination instructions can be found in the ‘Germination Instructions Tab’ below. Upon purchase you will receive these detailed instructions via email so that you have a permanent record.
FAMILY:
Amaryllidaceae
CLIMATE:
Cold, Temperate, Sub Tropical, Tropical
TEMPERATURE RANGE:
-7 to 45°C / 19 to 112°F – Can die back in heavy frost but will re-emerge was the weather warms again.
SOIL TYPE:
Soil should preferably be well draining. Suitable for most types of soil but does not like boggy or clay soils that retain moisture.
LOCATION:
Full Sun – Part Shade
HEIGHT:
Up to 60 cm’s (2 feet) – plant, up to 1 metre (3 feet) – flower.
WIDTH:
Up to 50 cm’s (1.6 feet)
pH:
5.5-7.0
GROWTH TYPE:
Evergreen, Perennial, Herbaceous
WATER REQUIREMENTS:
Light, a little thirstier if in pots. Generally, no extra water needed during winter unless undercover from getting any rain – and even then, very low requirements.
POLLINATION:
Self-Pollinating
MATURITY:
Up to 4 years from seed
GERMINATION RATES:
80%
GERMINATION TIME:
3-6 weeks, dependent on conditions.
GERMINATION DIFFICULTY:
Easy
SEEDS PER GRAM:
Approximately 140
MEDICINAL QUALITIES:
No
WEED POTENTIAL:
Yes, can spread as it readily disperses seeds around its base. This is easily prevented by dead heading the flowers as they start to die off.
EDIBLE:
No
SEED STORAGE & VIABILITY:
Cold Storage at 4°C (Fridge) up to 2 years.
FACTS ABOUT AGAPANTHUS PRAECOX/ORIENTALIS (Agapanthus Blue)
Agapanthus is native to Southern Africa which is why they are sometimes called an African Lily.
The name Agapanthus comes from the Greek words ‘agape’ and ‘anthus’, and when put together, mean ‘love flower’.
Agapanthus is the national flower of Antigua.
