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Agapanthus africanus
lily of the Nile
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Growing Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones
9 - 11These zones indicate the coldest temperatures this plant can typically survive.
What's my zone? →Frost Tolerancetender
Key Features
Maintenancelow
Overview
A clump-forming evergreen perennial reaching 18–24 inches (45–60 cm) tall in foliage, with flowering stems rising to 36–48 inches (90–120 cm). Leaves are strap-shaped, leathery, and dark green, 12–24 inches (30–60 cm) long and approximately 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide, arranged in basal clumps. In summer, sturdy scapes emerge bearing spherical umbels 4–8 inches (10–20 cm) across, each composed of 20–100 tubular flowers in shades of pale to deep blue-violet, occasionally white. Flowers are funnel-shaped, approximately 1.5 inches (4 cm) long. Native to rocky sandstone slopes of the Western Cape, South Africa, this species is more cold-sensitive than A. praecox and performs best in USDA zones 9–11. It tolerates mild frost only briefly. Performance declines in cold winters below 28°F (-2°C). Plants bloom most freely when somewhat pot-bound and root-restricted. Lower leaves may yellow and die back in dry periods. Self-seeding can occur in mild climates but is less aggressive than related species.
Native Range
Native to the Western Cape Province of South Africa, growing on rocky sandstone slopes and cliffs at low to moderate elevations. It occurs in fynbos and related vegetation types with well-drained, slightly acidic soils.Suggested Uses
Commonly planted in borders in USDA zones 9–11 at 18–24 inch (45–60 cm) spacing. Widely grown in containers 10–15 gallons (38–57 L) or larger, which allows overwintering indoors in colder climates. Used in Mediterranean-style and coastal gardens where summer drought and mild winters occur.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height3' - 4'
Width/Spread1'6" - 2'
Bloom Information
Blooms June through August in zones 9–11. In cooler coastal climates, bloom may extend into September. Individual umbels persist for 2–3 weeks; total bloom period lasts approximately 6–8 weeks. Flower production is reduced when plants are over-potted or subjected to prolonged drought during bud development.Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
pale to deep blue-violet, occasionally whiteFoliage Description
dark greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Plant in full sun in well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0. Water regularly during the growing season; established plants tolerate short dry spells but sustained drought reduces bloom. In zones 8 and colder, grow in containers and overwinter indoors above 28°F (-2°C). Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring and midsummer. Divide clumps every 4–6 years when flowering decreases, or when roots fill the container completely. Remove spent flower stems at the base after bloom to maintain appearance.Pruning
Remove spent flower scapes at the base once blooming is complete to prevent seed formation and maintain plant appearance. Cut back any yellowed or damaged leaves at the base throughout the growing season. Do not cut back foliage in fall; evergreen leaves persist through winter in frost-free climates.Pruning Schedule
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
summerfall
Maintenance Level
lowContainer Growing
✓ Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 10 gallons