perennial

African Lily

Agapanthus praecox

$33.20

The Story

Plant Bio

Agapanthus praecox, commonly known as the African Lily, is a clumping perennial with strap-like leaves and dense clusters of blue flowers.

Known for its ability to thrive in dry conditions and tolerates poor soils.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesAgapanthus praecox offers striking blue flower clusters that add vibrant color to gardens and borders, thriving in full sun or partial shade.
Practical UsesIts drought tolerance and low maintenance make it an excellent choice for water-wise landscapes.
Ecological BenefitsProvides nectar for pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local biodiversity.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36"

Width

18"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

South Africa

Toxicity

Mildly toxic to humans and pets if ingested

Marketplace

Where to Buy

In Stock$33.20

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds or divisions into well-draining soil in spring.
  2. Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
  3. Mist cuttings in a warm, bright location to root.
  4. Fertilize monthly during active growing season for best blooms.
  5. Prune dead or damaged foliage in late winter to encourage new growth.
  6. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Plant in full sun for vibrant blooms and healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water consistently during dry spells 🌱
  • Apply balanced fertilizer during spring and summer
  • Prune to shape and remove dead foliage
  • Mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
  • Don’t plant in heavy, poorly-draining soil
  • Skip fertilizing in late fall
  • Don’t neglect winter protection in colder zones

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Divide
Fertilize
Plant
Spring Cleanup
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vibrant perennial borderContainer display with ornamental grassesBrightening shady corners

Companion Plants

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

African Lily questions

What zones can African Lily grow in?

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 African Lily deer resistant?

Yes — African Lily is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does African Lily bloom?

African Lily typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does African Lily need full sun?

African Lily does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is African Lily drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), African Lily handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Grow 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.