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Blue globe-shaped flower head of African Lily against a sunny backdropPerennials

Agapanthus africanus

African Lily

African lilycontainer plantMediterraneanbee-friendlyblue flowers

The African Lily produces spectacular globe-shaped flower heads in blue or white on sturdy, tall stems above strap-like foliage. It blooms from June to August and lends a Mediterranean feel to any patio or container planting. In mild climates the plant is evergreen.

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Before
After

Characteristics

Sun
Full sun
Water
Medium
Height
60–100 cm
Spread
40–60 cm
Hardiness zone
8–11
Family
Amaryllidaceae
Evergreen
Yes
Flower colors
blue, white
Wildlife value
bees, butterflies

Bloom period

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Care guide

Plant in full sun in moist but well-drained soil. In cold regions, grow in containers and overwinter frost-free. Water regularly during the growing season and feed fortnightly with liquid fertiliser. Reduce watering in winter.

Pruning tips

Remove spent flower stems at the base. Do not cut healthy foliage — the leaves feed the bulb. Remove only yellowed or damaged leaves in spring.

Good companions

Blooming lavender with purple-blue flowers in summer sunlightShrubs

Lavandula angustifolia

English Lavender

Lavender is a beloved herb with aromatic silver-green foliage and purple-blue flower spikes. This evergreen plant blooms profusely from June to August and is remarkably drought-tolerant, attracting butterflies and bees to the garden.

Full sunLow30–60 cm
Lavender-blue flower plumes of Russian Sage in a sunny gardenPerennials

Perovskia atriplicifolia

Russian Sage

Russian Sage is a graceful sub-shrub with silvery-grey aromatic foliage and airy lavender-blue flower plumes from July to September. The plant can reach 150 cm and gives borders a hazy, ethereal quality. Russian Sage is highly drought-tolerant and thrives on poor, dry soil.

Full sunLow90–150 cm
Blue flowers and needle-like foliage of rosemary in springHerbs

Rosmarinus officinalis

Rosemary

Rosemary is an aromatic, evergreen sub-shrub with needle-like deep-green foliage and small blue flowers in spring. The plant gives off a warm, resinous scent and is prized both in the kitchen and the ornamental garden. Rosemary thrives in warm, dry spots and is highly drought-tolerant.

Full sunLow60–150 cm