In recent years this old fashioned plant has made a comeback into Australian gardens. And for good reason. Agapanthus are long flowering, and the vibrant colours are many and varied. The older style forms of Agapanthus orientalis and praecox have made way for new release, hybridised forms such as snowstorm, Queen Mum and black pantha.
Agapanthus grow best in the full sun, in a reasonably fertile, well drained soil. They will grow in partial shade but cope better with a minimum of 6 hours of sunlight each day. If the soil is heavy or clay based then add a soil conditioner such as gypsum to aid friability and improve composition. Organic fertiliser such as Dynamic Lifter will also help with improving the planting media.
How do I maintain Agapanthus?
Remove the dead or finished flowers, The old flowers are unattractive, and their removal will encourage further flowering and lush new growth. Occasionally Agapanthus can be affected by small snails or slugs, which skeletonise the foliage, the best treatment is snail pellets. However don’t use these if you have pets or small children in proximity. A spray with pyrethrum or white oil, may be an option also.
Damaged foliage need to removed at the base with sharp secateurs. Hold the leaf taut and cut through as low as possible.
Agapanthus will benefit from annual mulching, and twice per year application of organic fertiliser.
Keep Agapanthus just moist during extended dry periods. They are regarded as drought tolerant, so whilst not imperative, occasional watering will be of some benefit.
Agapanthus are a long lived perennial plant, that will give colour and contrast for many years.
Are Agapanthus frost tolerant?
Absolutely Yes. Agapanthus can withstand severe and prolonged frosts, as well as drought conditions, and coastal planting. Agapanthus are also rated a bush fire retardant plant!!!
Agapanthus, how to use in the garden?
The low dwarf species are fantastic border plants, they are fast growing, and hardy. Most importantly for border planting, they are very consistent. In a row of 10 plants, they will grow at the same rate and to the same size.
Agapanthus also make a fabulous cut flower, boisterous and vibrant, they are easy and long lived in a vase.
Surround a specimen plant such as deep purple Cercis Forest Pansy with a mass of Agapanthus peter pan, for a wonderful contrast and semi-formal style.
Of course Agapanthus look superb when planted as larger species along a country driveway.
Agapanthus species:
Agapanthus Orientalis Queen Mum
Agapanthus Sugar Plum
Agapanthus Bluestorm
Agapanthus Strawberry ice Pink
Agapanthus Pavlova
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