SafePlants

Agapanthus: The African Lily

Agapanthus, commonly known as African lily or lily of the Nile (though not a true lily), is a popular summer-flowering perennial prized for its showy blooms and architectural presence in gardens.

Considerations for Pets

• Agapanthus hybrids are perennial bulbs.

Scientific Classification and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Agapanthus africanus
• Common Names: African lily, lily of the Nile
• Family: Mentioned as from the Lily family in the text.

Distribution and Habitat

• Originally native to South Africa, particularly the Western Cape.
• Now widely cultivated in gardens around the world.
• Commonly seen in Falmouth, Cornwall.

Morphological Characteristics

• Features showy flowers in shades of blue, purple, white, and pink.
• Flowers are often comprised of up to 100 tiny tubular florets.
• Flower clusters are held on long stems.
• Leaves are often described as strap-like.

Quirky Facts

• Agapanthus is sometimes referred to as the "Love Flower from Africa."
• One source states that "Agapanthus likes to be hugged very tightly and baked in the sun in a very small pot."

Cultivation

• Prefers a sunny location.
• Benefits from mulching with gravel.
• Some varieties are deciduous, while others are evergreen.
• Said to prefer being pot bound.

Notable Varieties and Hybrids

• 'Navy Blue'
• 'Giant White' (grows to 1.5 meters)
• 'Pinnochio' (a dwarf variety)
• 'Northern Star'
• 'African Skies'
• Agapanthus campanulatus var albidus
• Agapanthus Ardernei hybrid
• Agapanthus campanulatus variegated

Further Information

• Fairweather's Nursery is noted as a premier supplier of wholesale Agapanthus plants.
• Pine Cottage Plants holds a National Collection of Agapanthus PC Hybrids.
• Hoyland Plant Centre also holds a National Collection of Agapanthus.
• BBC Gardeners' World Magazine provides practical guides on growing Agapanthus in pots or containers.