Lily of the Nile Agapanthus 'Aimee'

Water

For Lily of the Nile, during active growing seasons in spring and summer, water once weekly, providing about 1 to 1.5 inches of water each time. It's important to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. During the winter months, reduce watering to every other week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot, and never let the plant sit in standing water. In hotter climates, increased frequency may be necessary, but always check the soil moisture before adding more water.

Light

Lily of the Nile thrives in full sun to partial shade. Place it in a spot where it will receive at least six hours of sunlight daily. If living in a very hot climate, provide some afternoon shade to protect the plant from scorching. Inadequate light can lead to fewer blooms, so choosing the right spot is crucial for the plant's flowering success.

Temperature

Lily of the Nile prefers temperatures between 50°F and 90°F for optimal growth. The plant can survive minimum temperatures down to about 20°F, but it is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from freezing conditions. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60°F and 70°F during the daytime.

Pruning

Pruning Lily of the Nile is important to remove spent flower stems and encourage new growth. It is best done after flowering in late summer or early fall. Cut the flower stalks down to the base, and remove any damaged or dead foliage. Regular pruning helps maintain a tidy appearance and promotes a healthy, vigorous plant.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Lily of the Nile 'Aimee' thrives in a soil mix that is well-draining, rich in organic matter with loamy texture, and slightly acidic to slightly alkaline with a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0.

Repotting

Lily of the Nile 'Aimee' should be repotted every 3-4 years or when the root system has outgrown the current pot, to ensure continued growth and blooming.

Humidity & Misting

Lily of the Nile 'Aimee' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does well in average home humidity conditions without special requirements.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and ensure good air circulation.

• Outdoor

  Full sun to part shade in well-draining soil.

• Hardiness zone

  8-11 USDA

Life cycle

Agapanthus 'Aimee', commonly known as the African Lily, starts its growth from a thick rhizome or a clump of fleshy roots, which begin to sprout green strap-like leaves in early spring. As the plant matures, strong, tall stalks emerge from the foliage, culminating in rounded clusters of trumpet-shaped, blue or white flowers during the summer months. After blooming, the flowers will fade, and seed pods may form, eventually drying and releasing seeds if not deadheaded. In regions with cold winters, the plant will die back to the ground after the first frost and enter dormancy, during which the underground rhizomes survive until the following spring. If conditions are favorable, this perennial plant will re-emerge, starting the cycle anew with fresh growth from the rhizome. With proper care and suitable conditions, Agapanthus 'Aimee' can live for many years, repeating this life cycle annually.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Summer

• Propogation: Agapanthus 'Aimee', commonly known as the African Lily, is best propagated through division, which is typically done in the spring or early fall. Most gardeners prefer this method for its simplicity and effectiveness. To propagate by division, carefully lift the clump of the plant from the ground and gently separate it into smaller sections, making sure that each new section has at least one or two growing points or shoots attached. These divisions are then replanted at the same depth they were growing at previously and watered well to help establish the new plants. It is important to give the divisions enough space to grow, usually about 18 inches (approximately 45 centimeters) apart, to ensure that they have ample room to flourish.