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The Agapanthus, commonly referred to as the Lily-of-the-Nile or the African lily plant, is an herbaceous perennial from the Amaryllidaceae family that is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 11. This South African native beauty displays large masses of striking blue or white flowers atop a tall and slender stalk. Agapanthus plants reach up to 4 feet (1 m.) at maturity and bloom from June through August.
Agapanthus, also known as African lily or lily of the Nile, are stunning herbaceous perennials that add grace and elegance to any outdoor space. With long arching leaves and tall stalks of globe-shaped flowers in shades of blue, purple, and white, these beauties make a big impact with minimal effort. Follow these simple tips to grow healthy, prolific agapanthus in your garden for years of enjoyment.
Choosing the Right Agapanthus Variety
With hundreds of agapanthus cultivars to choose from, select varieties suited to your climate and landscape design needs.
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Hardiness zones 7-11 can grow evergreen types like ‘Blue Heaven’ and ‘Snowstorm’. Protect from frost.
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Zones 7-10 can grow deciduous varieties like ‘Sky’ and the Headbourne Hybrids. Mulch in winter.
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Dwarf types like ‘Peter Pan’ work well in compact beds and containers.
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Tall varieties like ‘Stevie’s Wonder’ make excellent specimens and cut flowers
Consider bloom time, color, and foliage patterns too. Mix it up for months of blossoms and visual interest.
Preparing the Planting Site
Agapanthus thrives in full sun to part shade with well-drained, fertile soil enriched with organic matter.
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Choose a site with at least 6 hours of direct sun for best flowering. Light afternoon shade is ideal in hot climates.
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Improve native soil drainage and nutrients by mixing in 2-3 inches of compost or well-rotted manure.
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Incorporate a balanced organic fertilizer like Flower-Tone before planting.
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Space plants 12-18 inches apart to allow for growth.
Planting and Care
With the right planting methods and ongoing care, your agapanthus will flourish.
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Plant roots 1 inch deep in spring after the last frost. Water thoroughly after planting.
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Consistent 1-2 inch per week watering is crucial, but avoid wet feet. Improve drainage if needed.
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Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Replenish as needed.
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Fertilize plants every 6-8 weeks during the growing season for abundant blooms. Use an organic bloom booster.
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Remove spent blooms by cutting back flower stalks to keep plants flowering.
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Divide congested clumps every 4-5 years in fall to rejuvenate.
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Prune foliage to the ground after first frost for winter interest and pest prevention.
Dealing With Pests and Disease
When provided optimal growing conditions, agapanthus are relatively pest and disease free. But watch for signs of:
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Snails and slugs – Hand pick off plants. Use bait traps as needed.
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Aphids – Blast with water spray or apply neem oil.
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Anthracnose, botrytis, mildew – Improve air circulation. Remove affected foliage.
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Root rot – Allow soil to dry between waterings. Improve drainage.
Prompt action at first signs of trouble can get issues under control. Consult local nurseries or extension services for safe and effective organic treatments in your area.
Adding Agapanthus to Your Garden Design
The unique colors, forms, and stature of agapanthus make them very versatile design elements.
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Use white varieties as charming accents alongside pathways or nestled within borders.
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Plant en masse for bold swaths of color. Underplant with low grasses or annuals.
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Pair blue and purple varieties with warm-toned blooms like orange, red, and yellow.
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Mix dwarf and taller types for dimension and visual interest.
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Let the elegant blooms stand alone as specimens in simple containers.
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Mass in raised planter beds or borders for maximum visual impact.
Growing Agapanthus in Pots and Planters
Container gardening is an excellent way to grow agapanthus, especially in colder climates where they can be overwintered indoors.
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Choose a 12-14 inch diameter container with drainage holes. Use quality potting mix.
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Plant one plant per pot. Too much room encourages foliage over flowers.
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Site containers in full sun to part shade. Rotate for even sun exposure.
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Water when the top inch of soil is dry. Drainage is crucial to prevent root rot.
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Move pots to a sheltered location or indoors before first frost.Provide bright, indirect light over winter.
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Transition back outdoors after the danger of frost has passed in spring.
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Feed with liquid fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season.
Follow these tips for success growing agapanthus in pots:
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Choose dwarf, cold hardy varieties suited to container culture.
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Use quality potting soil and excellent drainage.
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Water carefully – never allow pots to dry out or stay soggy.
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Move containers to a sheltered, sunny spot for winter.
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Repot in fresh soil every 2-3 years to refresh.
Caring for Agapanthus in Colder Climates
Gardeners in zones 6-7 can still enjoy agapanthus with some winter protection.
For in-ground plantings:
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Choose deciduous, cold hardy varieties. Avoid tender evergreens.
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Plant in sites protected from harsh wind and winter sun.
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Mulch plants to a depth of 4-6 inches after first frost using shredded leaves, straw, or pine needles.
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Prune old foliage down to the ground once dormant. Remove mulch in spring.
For container grown plants:
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Grow in pots that can be moved to a protected area like a garage or unheated porch for winter.
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Stop fertilizing by early September and reduce watering.
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Cut back foliage after it dies back in late fall.
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Store dormant pots in a cool 40-50°F spot. Check soil moisture every few weeks and water lightly if needed.
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Repot and move back outside after danger of frost has passed in spring.
With proper selection, planting, and care agapanthus can thrive and spread beauty in your garden for many years. Always choose varieties suited for your climate, provide optimal growing conditions, and practice good maintenance. Your efforts will be rewarded with graceful, carefree plants and countless flowers to enjoy indoors and out.
How to Plant Agapanthus
Agapanthus planting is best done during the fall or winter in warm climates. Agapanthus makes a lovely back border or focal plant due to its height, beautiful trumpet-shaped flowers, and leaf texture. For a dramatic effect, plant a large grouping throughout a sunny garden spot. Agapanthus flowers can also be used in container plantings in cooler regions. Growing Agapanthus requires a sunny to partly shady location and regular water. Mulching is helpful to retain moisture with new plants set about 1 to 2 inches (2.5-5 cm.) apart. While it is very tolerant to a wide variety of soil conditions, they do enjoy some rich compost or organic matter added during your agapanthus planting.
Caring for an Agapanthus plant is easy in warmer regions. Once planted, this beautiful plant requires very little upkeep. To maintain health and performance, divide the plant once every three years. Be sure to get as much of the root as possible when dividing and only divide after the plant has bloomed. A potted Agapanthus does best when it is mildly root-bound. For those in cooler climates, potted Agapanthus plants must be brought indoors for the winter. Water the plant only once a month or so and place back outdoors after the threat of frost has passed. This easy to grow perennial is a favorite of both southern and northern gardeners alike who appreciate how easy it is to care for and admire the remarkable flower display. As an added bonus, Agapanthus flowers make an eye-catching addition to any cut flower arrangement and the seed heads can be dried for year-round enjoyment. Warning: Extreme caution should be taken when handling the Apaganthus plant, as it is poisonous if ingested and a skin irritant. Those with sensitive skin should wear gloves when handling the plant.
Where & How To Plant Agapanthus In The Garden
FAQ
How to keep agapanthus blooming?
Is Miracle Grow good for agapanthus?
Where is the best place to plant an agapanthus?
What looks good next to agapanthus?
Can Agapanthus grow in pots?
If you’re growing agapanthus in pots, plant rhizomes in spring, 1 inch deep and 8 inches apart. Use a fertile, well-draining potting mix and a container with drainage holes. A 12-inch diameter pot is the right size to accommodate one plant, but plants bloom best when they are pot-bound.
Can Agapanthus be grown from seed?
Although agapanthus can be grown from seed, it takes several years for plants to grow large enough to bloom. Seed-grown plants vary widely due to the plant’s long history of hybridization. Most gardeners start with purchased plants, divisions, or bare-root rhizomes (fleshy rootlike structures), which yield flowering plants in just a season or two.
Can Agapanthus be used in a garden?
There are so many uses for Agapanthus in a garden. In a warm climate—Agapanthus is native to South Africa—it is a hardy plant that can be expected to return year after year. Plant clumps of it in drifts alongside a path, or in containers (to contain its urge to spread by rhizomes).
How do I choose a Agapanthus plant?
Choose a location that receives full sun unless the climate is very hot; in that case, some shade is beneficial. The soil needs to be moist, rich, and well-draining. Agapanthus does well in garden beds and borders or in containers. It can handle salty winds, which makes it a particularly good choice for coastal gardens.