Agapanthus Blue Thunder

Agapanthus Blue Thunder is a new variety of Agapanthus unique for the intense and deep blue of its flowers that truly stands out in the summer light. Its inflorescences bloom in abundance in summer, on short and sturdy stems, unaffected by the wind. Not very tall but beautifully coloured, this variety easily finds its place in all gardens, or in a pot on the terrace. Despite its exotic charm of an Austral plant, it is a carefree little Agapanthus that thrives in full sun, in ordinary but well-drained soil, not too dry in summer.

Agapanthus are plants of the lily family native to South Africa. Several species have been extensively hybridized by horticulturists in search of new colours, more compact and hardy plants, better adapted to our climates. The cultivar Blue Thunder ('SDB002') was recently obtained in South Africa, and it has also distinguished itself by its good resistance to soft rot at the neck, which can affect Agapanthus in moist and warm soil. This plant develops and multiplies rapidly from a stump of fleshy rhizomes, forming from spring onwards a dense clump of linear foliage, of a shiny dark green, with a minimum diameter of 40-50cm (16-20in), expanding over time. Flowering takes place in summer, from June to August. Numerous strong flower stems, averaging 50cm (20in) in height, emerge from the clump of foliage. They bear at their tip hemispherical umbels 10cm (4in) in diameter, composed of numerous small campanulate flowers in the shape of flared trumpets. Each is composed of 6 petals fused at the base, of ultramarine blue colour. Each petal is crossed by a fine line of midnight blue. The foliage of this variety disappears in winter, it is deciduous.

Despite its modest stature, Agapanthus Blue Thunder stands out from afar in the garden or on the terrace. In addition to its generous flowering, it has good hardiness, up to about -10/-12°C, and is easy to grow. This variety will bring an elegant and exotic touch to flower beds. It will easily adapt in many regions that are not too cold, especially if its stump is protected by a thick winter mulch. Whether in flower beds, borders, large rockeries, pots or containers, Agapanthus is suitable for a wide range of uses. It is particularly well-suited to mild coastal climates. Blue Thunder is very beautiful when associated with other compact blue, mauve or white varieties in a minimalist setting. It is also very decorative in flower beds with an exotic feel, with Kniphofias, Hemerocallis, grasses and Cannas.