Agapanthus Thumbelina

Agapanthus 'Thumbelina' is a hybrid Agapanthus of small size, well-dense, particularly floriferous, offering numerous small umbels of pure white flowers of modest size. Its evergreen foliage, which makes it resemble a Liriope when not in bloom, covers the ground with the same density and elegance. When its flowers appear, usually in July-August, it metamorphoses into a white and airy bouquet, of the most beautiful effect in a border or a flowering pot. This recent variety, relatively hardy, can be planted in the ground, in a sheltered position and with good winter protection, in many regions. 

Agapanthus plants belong to the Liliaceae family, native to South Africa, which hybridize naturally in nature or in our gardens. Agapanthus 'Thumbelina' is a recent hybrid cultivar distinguished by its reduced growth and floribundity. This plant develops and multiplies rapidly from a stump with fleshy rhizomes, forming a dense clump of narrow linear foliage, dark green and glossy, at least 40cm (16in) in diameter, expanding over time. The abundant flowering takes place in summer, more or less early depending on the climate, and lasts about 6 weeks. Solid and stout stems about 50cm (20in) high bear at their tips light hemispherical umbels, 8 to 10cm (3 to 4in) in diameter, composed of about twenty small campanulate pure white flowers, carried by long peduncles.

The 'Thumbelina' Agapanthus is a lovely variety to integrate in a white garden, among grey foliage, Gauras or daisies. It brings an exotic and light touch to sunny borders, while effectively covering the ground with its beautiful foliage throughout the year. This semi-hardy variety should be placed in a protected and south-facing location, and don't forget to apply a thick mulch at its base. Whether in a border, a rockery, a pot or a container, the 'Thumbelina' Agapanthus is suitable for a wide range of uses. It is particularly well-suited to mild coastal climates. In harsher regions, it will be perfect in a pot to be stored away each winter. It is very beautiful when associated with other mauve or blue varieties in a minimalist decor. It is also very decorative in exotic-themed borders with Kniphofias, Hemerocallis, shrubby salvias or Phlomis fruticosa.