Description

Agapanthus is one of the most hardy rhizomatous bulb species available to gardeners in most climatic regions around Australia. They will thrive in conditions of neglect such as dry slopes and near the coast. Even when the foliage of some varieties is killed off by frost, the rootstock often survives. A strong growing perennial with glossy, arching, strap shaped leaves and an abundance of showy, many flowered umbels on long erect stems in summer. Agapanthus are ideal as specimen or group plantings in gardens and containers or grown in rows along driveways, footpaths and fences. The flowers can be picked and last well in a vase.

Cultivation

For best flowering results, Agapanthus prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. Prepare the growing site by digging over the soil and adding a good handful of blood and bone, rich compost or well decayed animal manure prior to planting out. Plant the rhizome with the fleshy leaf stem just protruding above soil level and 20 to 25cm apart. Water in well at planting time and then only an occasional basis to promote growth. Once established, they can withstand long periods of drought. Remove spent flower stems and dead leaves at the end of winter. Protect them from harbouring snails and slugs which can attack the leaves and other plants in the garden.