PerennialsAgapanthus africanus
African Lily
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.
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
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
ShrubsLavandula 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.
PerennialsPerovskia 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.
HerbsRosmarinus 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.