Agapanthus 'Jessica'

RHS Plant Profile
African lily 'Jessica'
Award of Garden Merit
Herbaceous Perennial

A clump-forming, herbaceous perennial to about 60cm high, with long, strap-shaped green leaves. Produces rounded clusters of funnel-shaped blue flowers on upright stems in late summer and early autumn

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.5-1 metres

Max Spread

0.5-1 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
1–2 years
Max Spread
0.5-1 metres
Max Height
0.5-1 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H4

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Amaryllidaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming
Potentially harmful
Humans/Pets (dogs, cats): harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Genus
Agapanthus are clump-forming perennials with narrowly strap-shaped leaves, evergreen in some species, and erect stems bearing umbels of funnel-shaped blue or white flowers
Name Status
Accepted

How to Grow

Cultivation

In mild areas, grow in well-drained soil in a sunny, sheltered position. Otherwise, grow in a container and position in full sun. Water during the growing season and liquid feed monthly from spring to flowering. Overwinter containers in a cold greenhouse to protect from frost. See agapanthus cultivation

Propagation

Propagate by division in spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

No pruning required; seedheads can provide good winter structure

Pests

May be susceptible to agapanthus gall midge, slugs and snails

Diseases

May be susceptible to a virus