Plant Profile: Agapanthus praecox ssp. orientalis

The African Blue Lily, indigenous to southern Africa, thrives from fleshy rhizomes. Its long, strap-like evergreen leaves create an appealing clump that remains vibrant throughout the year. The flowers, which bloom in terminal clusters, consist of numerous tubular blossoms featuring six petals and a darker stripe running down the center, displaying hues of blue and white. These blooms typically appear from summer to fall and are excellent for use as cut flowers.

For optimal growth, this plant is best cultivated in a pot and should be moved indoors or to a greenhouse during winter in regions north of zone 8. It flourishes in well-drained soil and requires full sunlight to produce the best flowers.

In certain areas of Australia, it is regarded as a weed.