Agapanthus umbellatus

The Blue Agapanthus, also known as Agapanthus umbellatus (formerly africanus), is a truly majestic herbaceous perennial with rhizomatous growth. It offers large umbels of bell-shaped flowers in intense and bright lavender blue, carried well above a beautiful bunch of semi-evergreen or evergreen ribbon-like foliage, depending on the climate. This highly graphic plant, although not very hardy, will thrive on the terrace in full sun, or in borders under mild climates, in well-drained soil with a slightly acidic tendency.

Both originating from South Africa, Agapanthus umbellatus (or africanus) should not be confused with Agapanthus praecox, even though these two species naturally hybridize in nature or in our gardens. Agapanthus umbellatus is a robust plant that grows in South Africa, from the Cape Peninsula to Swellendam, at low altitudes, in mountainous areas, between rocky outcrops, and on sandy soils with a slightly acidic tendency. It develops and multiplies rapidly from a stump with fleshy rhizomes, forming a dense tuft of linear, shiny green foliage, at least 60cm (24in) in diameter, which expands over time. Flowering takes place in summer, from June-July to September. Solid stems, 80cm (32in) to 1m (3ft) tall, bear large hemispherical umbels, 15cm (6in) in diameter, composed of about thirty intense lavender blue bell-shaped flowers, carried by long peduncles.

Agapanthus umbellatus is magnificent in the garden with its large inflorescences that rise above a well-filled tuft. The soothing and bright blue colour of the flowers, as well as their abundance, will bring an elegant and exotic touch to your borders. Unfortunately, it is semi-hardy and disappears below -6/-8°C (21.2/17.6°F), which is why it should be given a protected and south-facing location, and an thick mulch should be applied at its base. Whether in borders, edging, large rock gardens, pots or containers, Agapanthus is suitable for a wide range of uses. It is particularly well-suited to mild coastal climates. It is very beautiful when combined with other white, mauve or blue varieties in a minimalist decor. It is also very decorative in borders with an exotic feel, with Kniphofias, Hemerocallis, and Phlomis fruticosa. In mild climates, it can flower repeatedly.

Agapanthus umbellatus is a plant associated with fire ecology. In South Africa, it is often subjected to fires that destroy the vegetation of the Fynbos, and it seems to flower more abundantly when it has experienced fire.