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lily of the Nile

Scientific Name: Agapanthus africanus

Family: Liliaceae

Category: Monocot

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Lily of the Nile (Agapanthus spp.)

The plant commonly known as Lily of the Nile, despite its name, is not a true lily and is native to South Africa, not the Nile region. It's a popular perennial admired for its striking flowers.

Common Names

  • Lily of the Nile
  • African Lily
  • African Blue Lily

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Agapanthus spp. (including Agapanthus africanus, Agapanthus praecox, and Agapanthus inapertus)
  • Family: Alliaceae (sometimes Liliaceae is also mentioned)
  • Synonyms: A. umbellatus pro parte

Considerations for Pets

  • The text mentions "None known" hazards for Agapanthus; however, it's always advisable to supervise pets around any plant.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to South Africa.
  • Thrives in Mediterranean climates.
  • Specifically mentioned as a beautiful landscape plant in Louisiana and popular in Great Britain and Europe.
  • Originally incorrectly thought to be from the Nile due to Victorian romanticism.
  • Found in rocky sandstone habitats.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Perennial flowering plant.
  • Features clusters of large, blue, funnel-shaped flowers atop long stalks in summer and early fall.
  • Has coarse, strap-like, green leaves.
  • Forms clusters of blue or white flower heads resembling firework displays.
  • Some varieties have showy flowers in shades of blue and purple, but also white and pink.
  • Can be grown in containers.
  • Agapanthus inapertus 'Graskop' is a deciduous variety.