24 Types of African Lily (Agapanthus) – Identification Guide

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The African Lily (Agapanthus), also known as Lily of the Nile, is a captivating genus of perennials native to Southern Africa, renowned for its vibrant, globe-shaped flower clusters and lush, strap-like foliage. With a range of blue, purple, white, and even bicolor blooms, Agapanthus is a versatile plant. The genus includes 6–10 species and numerous hybrids, offering diverse sizes, colors, and growth habits. Their drought tolerance, low maintenance, and ability to thrive in various climates (USDA zones 6-11, depending on the variety) make them a favorite among gardeners.

African lilies are landscaping gems, perfect for borders, containers, rock gardens, and mass plantings. Taller varieties like ‘Storm Cloud’ or ‘Queen Mum’ create dramatic backdrops, while dwarfs like ‘Peter Pan’ suit edging or small spaces. Their vibrant blooms add color to sunny or coastal gardens, and their drought tolerance makes them ideal for xeriscaping. Pollinator-friendly, they attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, enhancing biodiversity. Deer- and rabbit-resistant, they’re great for wildlife-prone areas. Evergreen types provide year-round foliage, and their cut flowers last in arrangements. Non-toxic to humans but toxic to pets if ingested, they’re safe for most garden settings.

These plants attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, boosting garden biodiversity. Deer- and rabbit-resistant, they’re ideal for wildlife-prone areas. Their cut flowers last in arrangements, and evergreen types provide year-round foliage in warmer climates, making them versatile for coastal or urban gardens.

Care involves weekly watering during growth, reducing in dormancy, and monthly fertilization with a 5-10-5 mix to promote blooms. Deadheading extends flowering, and dividing clumps every 4-6 years maintains vigor. In colder zones, mulch or overwinter indoors to protect from frost, especially for evergreen varieties.

Varieties of African Lily (Agapanthus)

Agapanthus africanus

  • Description: A classic evergreen species, Agapanthus africanus is native to South Africa’s Western Cape, thriving in fynbos ecosystems. It’s prized for its deep blue flowers and glossy foliage.
  • Flower Color: Deep blue to violet-blue, with trumpet-shaped blooms in dense umbels.
  • Height: 2–3 feet tall (flower stalks); foliage 12–18 inches.
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 9–11; frost-sensitive, requiring protection in Zone 8.
  • Blooming Season: Summer (June–August in Northern Hemisphere; December–February in Southern Hemisphere).
  • Characteristics: Compact clumps of strap-like, evergreen leaves and sturdy flower stalks. Rhizomes spread slowly, forming dense clusters.
  • Uses: Ideal for borders, rock gardens, or containers in Mediterranean climates. Excellent as a cut flower for bouquets.

Agapanthus praecox

  • Description: A robust evergreen species, Agapanthus praecox is the most widely cultivated Agapanthus, native to South Africa’s Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal.
  • Flower Color: Bright blue, pale blue, or white, in large, rounded umbels.
  • Height: 3–4 feet tall (flower stalks); foliage 18–24 inches.
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 8–11; tolerates light frost with protection.
  • Blooming Season: Mid to late summer (June–September).
  • Characteristics: Broad, arching leaves and thick rhizomes form vigorous clumps. Produces 50–100 flowers per umbel, creating a dramatic display.
  • Uses: Perfect for mass plantings, coastal gardens, or large containers. Popular in cut flower arrangements for its long vase life.

Agapanthus inapertus

  • Description: A deciduous species native to South Africa’s Drakensberg Mountains, Agapanthus inapertus is known for its drooping, tubular flowers and cold tolerance.
  • Flower Color: Deep purple to dark blue, occasionally white, in pendulous clusters.
  • Height: 3–5 feet tall (flower stalks); foliage 12–18 inches.
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 7–10; hardier than evergreen types, surviving brief freezes.
  • Blooming Season: Late summer (July–September).
  • Characteristics: Narrow, upright leaves die back in winter, with slender, drooping flowers adding a unique texture. Rhizomes are less spreading than other species.
  • Uses: Suited for mixed borders, wildflower gardens, or naturalized areas. Striking in floral arrangements due to its pendant blooms.

Agapanthus ‘Peter Pan’

  • Description: A popular dwarf evergreen cultivar, ‘Peter Pan’ is a compact hybrid ideal for small gardens or containers.
  • Flower Color: Light blue to medium blue, in tight umbels.
  • Height: 8–18 inches tall (flower stalks); foliage 6–12 inches.
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 8–11; protect in Zone 8 during freezes.
  • Blooming Season: Summer (June–August).
  • Characteristics: Short, strap-like leaves and delicate flower stalks create a tidy, low-growing clump. Produces 20–50 flowers per umbel.
  • Uses: Perfect for edging, rock gardens, patio containers, or groundcover. Adds charm to window boxes or small urban gardens.

Agapanthus ‘Storm Cloud’

  • Description: A striking deciduous hybrid, ‘Storm Cloud’ is known for its intense, dark blooms and robust growth, derived from A. inapertus and A. praecox.
  • Flower Color: Deep navy blue to purple, in large, dense umbels.
  • Height: 3–4 feet tall (flower stalks); foliage 18–24 inches.
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 7–10; cold-hardy with mulching.
  • Blooming Season: Mid to late summer (July–September).
  • Characteristics: Broad, arching leaves die back in winter, with sturdy stalks supporting 50–80 flowers. Clumps expand steadily.
  • Uses: Ideal for focal points, mixed borders, or large containers. Stunning in cut flower arrangements for bold color.

Agapanthus ‘Snowball’

  • Description: A compact evergreen cultivar, ‘Snowball’ is cherished for its pure white blooms and tidy growth, ideal for brightening gardens.
  • Flower Color: Pure white, in rounded umbels.
  • Height: 1–2 feet tall (flower stalks); foliage 8–12 inches.
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 8–11; protect in Zone 8.
  • Blooming Season: Summer (June–August).
  • Characteristics: Glossy, strap-like leaves and short flower stalks form neat clumps. Each umbel holds 20–40 flowers.
  • Uses: Great for borders, containers, moon gardens, or wedding floral arrangements. Complements darker Agapanthus varieties.

Agapanthus ‘Blue Storm’

  • Description: A vigorous evergreen hybrid from the Storm Series, ‘Blue Storm’ is bred for prolific blooming and compact growth.
  • Flower Color: Vibrant blue, in dense, spherical umbels.
  • Height: 2–3 feet tall (flower stalks); foliage 12–18 inches.
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 8–11; marginal in Zone 7 with protection.
  • Blooming Season: Early to late summer (June–September).
  • Characteristics: Broad, evergreen leaves and sturdy stalks support 50–100 flowers per umbel. Blooms longer than many cultivars.
  • Uses: Suited for mass plantings, borders, or large pots. Excellent as a cut flower for summer bouquets.

Agapanthus ‘Ever Sapphire’

  • Description: A semi-evergreen hybrid from the Everpanthus Series, ‘Ever Sapphire’ offers early blooms and a compact habit, bred in New Zealand.
  • Flower Color: Sapphire blue, in medium-sized umbels.
  • Height: 1.5–2 feet tall (flower stalks); foliage 8–12 inches.
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 8–11; protect in Zone 8.
  • Blooming Season: Early summer to fall (May–October, climate-dependent).
  • Characteristics: Narrow, arching leaves and short stalks produce 30–60 flowers per umbel. Reblooming potential with deadheading.
  • Uses: Perfect for small gardens, containers, edging, or mixed borders. Adds early-season color to landscapes.

Agapanthus ‘Black Pantha’

  • Description: A dramatic evergreen hybrid, ‘Black Pantha’ (also sold as ‘Black Panther’) is prized for its near-black buds and deep purple blooms.
  • Flower Color: Dark purple (buds appear black), in large umbels.
  • Height: 2–3 feet tall (flower stalks); foliage 12–18 inches.
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 8–11; marginal in Zone 8.
  • Blooming Season: Summer (June–August).
  • Characteristics: Glossy, evergreen leaves and sturdy stalks support 40–80 flowers. Buds open slowly, creating a striking contrast.
  • Uses: Ideal for modern gardens, focal points, or containers. Stunning in cut flower arrangements for bold drama.

Agapanthus ‘Tinkerbell’

  • Description: A dwarf evergreen cultivar, ‘Tinkerbell’ is grown primarily for its variegated foliage, with occasional pale blue flowers.
  • Flower Color: Pale blue (sparingly produced), in small umbels.
  • Height: 6–12 inches tall (flower stalks); foliage 4–8 inches.
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 8–11; protect in Zone 8.
  • Blooming Season: Summer (June–August, if flowering occurs).
  • Characteristics: Creamy white and green variegated leaves form dense, low clumps. Rarely blooms, valued for foliage over flowers.
  • Uses: Perfect as groundcover, edging, or container accents. Adds texture to rock gardens or shade borders.

Agapanthus ‘Fragrant Blue’

  • Description: A semi-evergreen hybrid, ‘Fragrant Blue’ is cherished for its lightly scented flowers, a rare trait in Agapanthus.
  • Flower Color: Medium blue, in loose umbels.
  • Height: 2–3 feet tall (flower stalks); foliage 12–18 inches.
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 8–11; protect in Zone 8.
  • Blooming Season: Summer (June–August).
  • Characteristics: Broad, arching leaves and sturdy stalks support 30–60 flowers with a sweet, subtle fragrance. Clumps expand moderately.
  • Uses: Suited for borders, containers, or cut flowers, especially in evening gardens where fragrance shines. Attracts pollinators.

Agapanthus ‘Gold Strike’

  • Description: A compact evergreen cultivar, ‘Gold Strike’ is grown for its striking variegated foliage and vibrant blue flowers.
  • Flower Color: Bright blue, in medium umbels.
  • Height: 1–2 feet tall (flower stalks); foliage 8–12 inches.
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 8–11; protect in Zone 8.
  • Blooming Season: Summer (June–August).
  • Characteristics: Yellow and green striped leaves create a bold contrast, with short stalks supporting 20–50 flowers. Slow-spreading clumps.
  • Uses: Ideal for containers, edging, rock gardens, or mixed borders. Foliage adds year-round color to landscapes.

Agapanthus ‘Midnight Blue’

  • Description: A compact evergreen hybrid, ‘Midnight Blue’ is prized for its intensely dark blue flowers, adding a bold statement to gardens.
  • Flower Color: Deep indigo-blue, in dense umbels.
  • Height: 2–3 feet tall (flower stalks); foliage 12–18 inches.
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 8–11; protect in Zone 8 during frost.
  • Blooming Season: Mid to late summer (June–August).
  • Characteristics: Glossy, strap-like leaves form tight clumps, with sturdy stalks supporting 40–70 flowers per umbel. Moderate growth rate.
  • Uses: Ideal for borders, containers, or mass plantings. Striking in cut flower arrangements for rich color contrast.

Agapanthus ‘Silver Moon’

  • Description: An evergreen cultivar valued for its variegated foliage and soft blue flowers, ‘Silver Moon’ adds elegance to shaded areas.
  • Flower Color: Pale blue, in loose umbels.
  • Height: 1.5–2.5 feet tall (flower stalks); foliage 8–12 inches.
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 8–11; marginal in Zone 8 with protection.
  • Blooming Season: Summer (June–August).
  • Characteristics: Creamy white and green variegated leaves create year-round interest, with delicate stalks bearing 20–50 flowers. Slow-spreading.
  • Uses: Perfect for shade gardens, containers, edging, or groundcover. Complements ferns or hostas in mixed borders.

Agapanthus ‘Headbourne Hybrids’

  • Description: A group of deciduous hybrids developed in the UK, ‘Headbourne Hybrids’ are known for their cold hardiness and varied blue shades.
  • Flower Color: Light to deep blue, occasionally white, in large umbels.
  • Height: 2–4 feet tall (flower stalks); foliage 12–18 inches.
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 7–10; among the hardiest Agapanthus.
  • Blooming Season: Mid to late summer (July–September).
  • Characteristics: Narrow, arching leaves die back in winter, with robust stalks supporting 50–100 flowers. Vigorous clumping habit.
  • Uses: Suited for mixed borders, cottage gardens, or naturalized areas. Excellent as cut flowers for summer bouquets.

Agapanthus ‘Blue Moon’

  • Description: A semi-evergreen hybrid, ‘Blue Moon’ is cherished for its large, pale blue flowers and robust growth, ideal for bold displays.
  • Flower Color: Pale blue with darker veins, in rounded umbels.
  • Height: 3–4 feet tall (flower stalks); foliage 18–24 inches.
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 8–11; protect in Zone 8.
  • Blooming Season: Summer (June–August).
  • Characteristics: Broad, glossy leaves and thick stalks support 60–100 flowers per umbel. Forms large, spreading clumps.
  • Uses: Great for mass plantings, focal points, or large containers. Popular in floral arrangements for its size and color.

Agapanthus ‘Twister’

  • Description: A unique deciduous hybrid, ‘Twister’ is celebrated for its bicolor flowers, blending white and blue for a striking effect.
  • Flower Color: White petals with blue bases, in medium umbels.
  • Height: 1.5–2.5 feet tall (flower stalks); foliage 8–12 inches.
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 7–10; cold-hardy with mulching.
  • Blooming Season: Summer (June–August).
  • Characteristics: Narrow, arching leaves die back in winter, with slender stalks bearing 30–60 flowers. Compact, tidy clumps.
  • Uses: Ideal for borders, containers, rock gardens, or cut flowers. Adds whimsy to modern landscapes.

Agapanthus ‘Elaine’

  • Description: A vigorous evergreen hybrid, ‘Elaine’ is known for its large, deep purple-blue flowers and robust growth, bred for reliability.
  • Flower Color: Deep purple-blue, in dense umbels.
  • Height: 3–4 feet tall (flower stalks); foliage 18–24 inches.
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 8–11; marginal in Zone 8 with protection.
  • Blooming Season: Mid to late summer (July–September).
  • Characteristics: Broad, glossy leaves and sturdy stalks support 50–100 flowers. Fast-growing, forming large clumps.
  • Uses: Suited for focal points, mass plantings, or large containers. Stunning in cut flower arrangements.

Agapanthus ‘Lilliput’

  • Description: A dwarf evergreen cultivar, ‘Lilliput’ is perfect for small spaces, offering dark blue flowers on short stalks.
  • Flower Color: Dark blue, in tight umbels.
  • Height: 8–18 inches tall (flower stalks); foliage 6–10 inches.
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 8–11; protect in Zone 8.
  • Blooming Season: Summer (June–August).
  • Characteristics: Narrow, strap-like leaves form compact clumps, with delicate stalks bearing 20–40 flowers. Slow-spreading.
  • Uses: Ideal for edging, rock gardens, containers, or groundcover. Adds charm to small patios or balconies.

Agapanthus ‘Charlotte’

  • Description: A semi-evergreen hybrid, ‘Charlotte’ is admired for its star-shaped, bicolor flowers and compact habit, bred for versatility.
  • Flower Color: Pale blue with darker blue midstripes, in loose umbels.
  • Height: 1.5–2 feet tall (flower stalks); foliage 8–12 inches.
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 8–11; protect in Zone 8.
  • Blooming Season: Early to late summer (June–September).
  • Characteristics: Glossy, arching leaves and slender stalks support 30–60 flowers. Reblooming potential with deadheading.
  • Uses: Perfect for borders, containers, rock gardens, or cut flowers. Enhances mixed plantings with vibrant color.

Agapanthus ‘Brilliant Blue’

  • Description: An evergreen hybrid, ‘Brilliant Blue’ is known for its vivid blue flowers and compact growth, part of the Everpanthus Series.
  • Flower Color: Bright blue, in dense umbels.
  • Height: 1.5–2 feet tall (flower stalks); foliage 8–12 inches.
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 8–11; marginal in Zone 8.
  • Blooming Season: Early summer to fall (May–October).
  • Characteristics: Narrow, glossy leaves and short stalks produce 30–70 flowers. Extended blooming with proper care.
  • Uses: Suited for small gardens, containers, edging, or mass plantings. Great for cut flowers in summer bouquets.

Agapanthus ‘Queen Mum’

  • Description: A robust evergreen hybrid, ‘Queen Mum’ is celebrated for its large, bicolor flowers and stately presence, bred in Australia.
  • Flower Color: White with blue-violet bases, in large umbels.
  • Height: 3–4 feet tall (flower stalks); foliage 18–24 inches.
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 8–11; protect in Zone 8.
  • Blooming Season: Summer (June–August).
  • Characteristics: Broad, glossy leaves and thick stalks support 60–100 flowers. Vigorous, forming large clumps.
  • Uses: Ideal for focal points, mixed borders, or large containers. Stunning in wedding floral arrangements.

Agapanthus ‘Albus’

  • Description: An evergreen cultivar of Agapanthus praecox, ‘Albus’ is prized for its pure white flowers, adding brightness to gardens.
  • Flower Color: Pure white, in large umbels.
  • Height: 2–3 feet tall (flower stalks); foliage 12–18 inches.
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 8–11; protect in Zone 8.
  • Blooming Season: Summer (June–August).
  • Characteristics: Glossy, strap-like leaves and sturdy stalks support 50–80 flowers. Moderate clumping habit.
  • Uses: Perfect for moon gardens, borders, containers, or cut flowers. Complements darker blooms in mixed plantings.

Agapanthus ‘Blue Heaven’

  • Description: A semi-evergreen hybrid, ‘Blue Heaven’ is known for its sky-blue flowers and reliable reblooming, offering extended color.
  • Flower Color: Sky blue, in medium umbels.
  • Height: 2–3 feet tall (flower stalks); foliage 12–18 inches.
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 8–11; protect in Zone 8.
  • Blooming Season: Early summer to fall (June–October).
  • Characteristics: Broad, arching leaves and slender stalks produce 40–80 flowers. Reblooming with deadheading.
  • Uses: Suited for borders, containers, mass plantings, or cut flowers. Attracts pollinators to gardens.

General Care Tips for Agapanthus Varieties

  • Planting: Plant rhizomes in spring or fall in well-drained soil, 1–2 inches deep, spaced 6–24 inches apart based on size. Use well-draining potting mix in containers.
  • Light: Most prefer full sun (6–8 hours daily); variegated or dwarf types tolerate partial shade.
  • Watering: Water weekly during establishment; reduce to every 10–14 days once mature. Drought-tolerant but blooms best with consistent moisture.
  • Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) in spring and a high-potassium formula (5-10-20) before blooming. Avoid over-fertilizing.
  • Pruning: Deadhead spent blooms to encourage reblooming and prevent seeding. Trim dead foliage in fall (deciduous) or as needed (evergreen).
  • Winter Care: In Zone 7 or 8, mulch heavily (6–12 inches) to protect rhizomes. In colder zones, grow in containers and overwinter indoors at 40–60°F.
  • Pest/Disease: Watch for snails, slugs, or root rot. Use organic controls and ensure proper drainage.

Choosing the Right Agapanthus for Your Garden

  • Small Gardens/Containers: Opt for dwarf cultivars like ‘Peter Pan’, ‘Snowball’, ‘Tinkerbell’, or ‘Gold Strike’ for compact size and tidy growth.
  • Bold Displays: Choose ‘Storm Cloud’, ‘Black Pantha’, or ‘Blue Storm’ for dramatic, large blooms.
  • Cold Climates: Select deciduous ‘Agapanthus inapertus’ or ‘Storm Cloud’ for better cold tolerance in Zones 7–8.
  • Coastal or Dry Areas: ‘Agapanthus praecox’ or ‘Agapanthus africanus’ thrive in salty, drought-prone conditions.
  • Foliage Interest: ‘Tinkerbell’ or ‘Gold Strike’ offer variegated leaves for year-round appeal.
  • Fragrance: ‘Fragrant Blue’ adds a sensory element to intimate spaces.

Challenges and Considerations

  • Invasiveness: Some Agapanthus, especially ‘Agapanthus praecox’, can become invasive in mild climates (e.g., Australia, New Zealand). Deadhead to prevent seed spread and monitor rhizome growth.
  • Toxicity: All parts are toxic to humans and pets, causing nausea or irritation. Handle with gloves and keep away from children and animals.
  • Cold Sensitivity: Evergreen types are frost-tender, requiring protection in Zone 8 or colder.
  • Bloom Issues: Insufficient sun, overcrowding, or excess nitrogen can reduce flowering. Ensure full sun and divide clumps every 3–5 years.

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