Agapanthus

RHS Plant Profile
African lily

Other common names

lily-of-the-Nile, Nile lily

Herbaceous Perennial

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Loam, Sand

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years

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
No preference

Botanical Details

Family
Amaryllidaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Habit
Clump forming
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
Correct

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun or grow in a container. In cold areas, mulch well overwinter and take containers under cover. See agapanthus cultivation

Propagation

Propagate by division every three to four years in spring

Pruning

In late autumn remove any remaining leaves, but seedheads can be left as they look attractive over winter

Pests

Generally pest-free but may be susceptible to agapanthus gall midge, slugs and snails

Diseases

Generally disease-free, but may be susceptible to a virus disease.