Storm Cloud African Lily
Agapanthus praecox 'Storm Cloud'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
48 inches
Width
30 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
8, 9
Water
Low to Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
South Africa
Toxicity
Mildly toxic if ingested; sap may cause skin irritation.
The Story
Plant Bio
Agapanthus praecox, commonly known as Lily of the Nile, is a clump-forming perennial from South Africa, featuring strap-like, evergreen to semi-evergreen leaves and large, rounded umbels of funnel-shaped flowers on tall, leafless stalks. A particularly robust and free-flowering cultivar, 'Storm Cloud' is distinguished by its large, dramatic flower heads of deep, dark violet-blue flowers held on strong, upright stems. It is a taller variety than many modern compact hybrids.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds in moist soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and root in 6 weeks.
- Plant in well-drained soil with full sun for optimal growth.
- Water deeply once a week during dry spells to establish roots.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer in spring and summer.
- Divide mature clumps in early spring or fall for propagation.
Pro Tip
Use organic compost to enrich soil and promote healthy flowering.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
- Apply balanced fertilizer in spring and summer
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years for vigorous growth
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Do not disturb plants during flowering
- Skip fertilizing in late fall to prevent stress
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Storm Cloud African Lily questions
What zones can Storm Cloud African Lily grow in?
Storm Cloud African Lily is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Storm Cloud African Lily deer resistant?
Yes — Storm Cloud African Lily is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Storm Cloud African Lily bloom?
Storm Cloud African Lily typically blooms in mid to late summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Storm Cloud African Lily need full sun?
Storm Cloud African Lily does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Storm Cloud African Lily drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Storm Cloud African Lily handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Agapanthus to compare
African Lily
Agapanthus inapertus 'Nigrescens'
Galaxy Blue Lily of the Nile
Agapanthus praecox 'Galaxy Blue'
Northern Star African Lily
Agapanthus praecox 'Northern Star'
Lily of the Nile
Agapanthus praecox 'Luly'
African Lily Lily of the Nile
Agapanthus africanus
Galaxy White African Lily
Agapanthus praecox 'Galaxy White'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Storm Cloud African Lily with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
