African Lily Agapanthus inapertus subsp. hollandii 'Sky'
ABOUT
Agapanthus inapertus subsp. hollandii 'Sky', commonly known as the African lily or Lily of the Nile, is an ornamental plant known for its striking blooms. This African lily variety showcases rounded clusters of flowers that sit atop sturdy stems, like little blue or violet fireworks bursting forth in a display of vivid color. The individual flowers have a graceful, tubular shape, creating a delicate, funnel-like form, and their color often resembles a soft, pastel blue reminiscent of the sky at dawn. Below these alluring flower heads, the plant has long, slender leaves that arch elegantly from its base. These leaves are deep green, providing a lush backdrop that further accentuates the eye-catching beauty of the blooms. The appearance of this African lily is not only marked by the contrast of its vibrant flowers against its green foliage, but also by an aura of exotic charm and a structured yet natural form.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae
Synonyms
African Lily, Lily of the Nile, Blue African Lily
Common names
Agapanthus inapertus subsp. hollandii 'Sky'
ToxicityTo humans
The Agapanthus, commonly known as Lily of the Nile, contains compounds that can be toxic if ingested by humans. While it’s not considered highly toxic, consuming parts of the plant, especially the seeds, can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is always advisable to handle the plant with care and to avoid ingesting any part of it to prevent the potential consequences of poisoning.
To pets
For pets, the Lily of the Nile can be toxic as well. If ingested by pets, such as cats and dogs, the plant can cause symptoms similar to those in humans, including vomiting, diarrhea, and nausea. In some cases, more severe reactions like tremors or cardiac issues may occur, depending on the quantity ingested. Pet owners should prevent their animals from chewing on or consuming any part of the plant to avoid these potentially harmful effects.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Spread
2 feet (60 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Adds visual appeal to gardens with its striking blue to violet flowers.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it requires minimal watering, making it suitable for xeriscaping.
- Low Maintenance: It requires little care beyond occasional division and deadheading.
- Attracts Pollinators: Flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, which are beneficial for garden biodiversity.
- Long Blooming Period: Offers a long season of blooms, typically in summer, providing extended interest in the landscape.
- Versatility: Suitable for planting in borders, containers, and as a focal point in garden beds.
- Erosion Control: Its root system helps to stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As a dye source: The flowers of Agapanthus can be used to produce a blue or purple dye for textiles.
- Bioindicator species: Because of its sensitivity to changes in soil and water, Agapanthus can indicate the health of an ecosystem.
- Educational tool: Agapanthus can be used to demonstrate plant reproduction and growth for teaching biology and horticulture.
- Architectural inspiration: The striking form of the Agapanthus blooms can inspire patterns and design elements in architecture and decor.
- Artistic muse: The beautiful flowers and overall structure provide inspiration for artists and can be featured in paintings and sculptures.
- Culinary experimentation: Though not common, the blooms may be used as a decorative edible garnish for their unique aesthetic appeal.
- Frost protection: In some areas, Agapanthus plants are utilized to protect other sensitive plants from frost due to their hardiness.
- Plant competitions: Agapanthus is often a feature in garden and horticultural shows due to its striking appearance and variety.
- Erosion control: The rhizomatous root system of Agapanthus makes it useful for stabilizing soil on slopes and preventing erosion.
- Photography subject: With their vivid color and dramatic form, the Agapanthus flowers are popular subjects for nature and garden photographers.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Agapanthus is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Agapanthus is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Love Letters: The genus name Agapanthus is derived from the Greek words ‘agape’ (love) and ‘anthos’ (flower), symbolizing love and adoration. 'Sky' with its heavenly blue hue could represent a deep or soaring affection.
- Beauty: With its striking blue to violet flowers, the Agapanthus is often associated with beauty and a sense of elegance.
- Endurance and Strength: The Agapanthus plant is a hardy perennial, which can symbolize the ability to endure challenges and stand strong over time.
- Freedom: The open and star-shaped flowers of the Agapanthus could symbolize openness to the world and freedom.
- Fertility: In some cultures, the Agapanthus, with its lush, green foliage and plentiful flowers, is seen as a symbol of fertility and abundance.
WaterThe African Blue Lily should be watered once every week, ensuring that the soil is kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. During the active growing season in spring and summer, water adequately to soak the root zone, which may require about 1 to 1.5 gallons depending on the size of the plant and the environmental conditions. Reduce watering frequency in the fall and allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. In winter, when the plant is dormant, less frequent watering is necessary—perhaps once every two to three weeks, with just enough water to prevent the soil from completely drying out.
LightAfrican Blue Lily thrives in full sunshine to partial shade. Ideally, place the plant where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. A spot that offers morning sunlight and afternoon shade is a good choice to protect the plant from the intense heat of the midday sun.
TemperatureAfrican Blue Lily prefers a temperate climate and does well in temperatures ranging between 50°F and 80°F. However, it can withstand brief periods of colder temperatures down to about 20°F. To ensure optimal growth, protect the plant from frost and ensure it is not exposed to temperatures below this range for extended periods.
PruningAfrican Blue Lily should be pruned to remove spent flower stalks and to tidy up any dead or damaged foliage. Pruning can be done after flowering in the late summer or fall. This helps to encourage new growth for the following season and maintain the plant's appearance. Additionally, cutting back the foliage to the ground in late fall can help to keep the plant healthy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilLily of the Nile requires well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 to 8.0. A soil mix of loam, peat or compost, and coarse sand or perlite in equal parts is ideal for promoting healthy growth and abundant flowering.
RepottingLily of the Nile should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. The plant prefers to be snug in its pot, so only upsize if the roots have become crowded.
Humidity & MistingLily of the Nile thrives in moderate humidity levels, typical of outdoor environments. Aim for around 40% to 60% humidity for optimal growth if growing indoors, but it's generally not humidity-sensitive.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light with good airflow.
Outdoor
Choose sunny spot; protect from frost and winter wetness.
Hardiness zone
8-10 USDA
Life cycleAgapanthus inapertus subsp. hollandii 'Sky', commonly known as Drakensberg Agapanthus, begins its life cycle as a seed that germinates in spring, given moist, warm conditions. Seedlings develop into a clump of strap-like foliage, with each plant focusing on vegetative growth in its initial years. Once mature, typically after several years, the plant enters a reproductive phase each summer, producing tall flower stalks topped with clusters of blue to violet funnel-shaped flowers. After pollination by insects, these flowers set seed in the late summer or early fall, which can be dispersed by wind. The plant may also reproduce vegetarily through division of its clumped root system, a common propagation method by gardeners seeking to increase stock. In winter, the plant may enter a period of dormancy, especially in cooler climates, reducing growth until the conditions become favorable again with the arrival of spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Agapanthus inapertus subsp. hollandii 'Sky', commonly known as the African Lily, is typically propagated by division, which is the most popular method. The best time to propagate this plant by division is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the clump of the plant and gently separate the rhizomes, making sure that each section has at least one or two growing points or shoots. Plant the divisions at the same depth they were previously grown, spacing them about 18 inches (approximately 45 cm) apart to allow room for growth. Water the new divisions well to help settle the soil around the roots and encourage establishment.
