Agapanthus campanulatus subsp. patens

RHS Plant Profile
spreading bell African lily

Synonyms

Agapanthus patens

Herbaceous Perennial

A clump-forming herbaceous perennial to 1.2m, with narrowly strap-shaped, greyish-green leaves and erect stems bearing umbels of widely trumpet-shaped, blue flowers from late summer

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

1-1.5 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
1-1.5 metres

Growing Conditions

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

Position

Full sun
Aspect
West–facing or East–facing or South–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
Correct
Plant Range
S Africa

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. See Agapanthus cultivation for further advice

Propagation

Propagate by division every 3 to 4 years in spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Mediterranean climate plants
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cut flowers
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

No need to cut down as the seedheads look attractive over winter

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs and snails and agapanthus gall midge

Diseases

May be susceptible to a virus