African Lily Agapanthus inapertus

Water

The Agapanthus, commonly known as the African Lily, should be watered thoroughly, allowing the soil to become moist but not soggy. During the growing season, it typically requires watering once every week, using approximately 1 gallon of water per plant for outdoor lilies, while potted indoor varieties may require slightly less. The soil should be allowed to dry out somewhat between waterings to prevent root rot. In hotter, drier climates, African Lilies may need more frequent watering, whereas in cooler climates, they may need less. During winter dormancy, reduce watering significantly, providing just enough to prevent the soil from completely drying out, perhaps every two to three weeks depending on indoor conditions.

Light

African Lily thrives best in full sun to partial shade. An ideal spot would be where the plant receives at least six hours of direct sunlight but is shielded from the scorching afternoon sun, especially in hotter climates. Providing bright light encourages robust growth and plentiful flowering, so positioning the plant in an area with plenty of natural light is essential.

Temperature

African Lilies prefer moderate temperatures and can typically withstand a minimum temperature of around 50 degrees Fahrenheit. They perform best in temperatures ranging from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It's important to protect them from temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, as cold temperatures can damage or kill the plant. The ideal temperature conditions maximize growth and flowering potential.

Pruning

Pruning African Lily involves deadheading spent flowers to encourage further blooming and maintain a tidy appearance. At the end of the blooming season, typically in late summer or early fall, cut back the flower stalks to the base to promote healthy new growth for the next season. Full pruning is not often required, but it is beneficial to remove any dead or damaged leaves as necessary to keep the plant looking its best.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The African Lily thrives in a soil mix with good drainage; a blend of loam, sand, and compost is ideal, with a pH between 6.0 and 8.0.

Repotting

African Lilies should be repotted every 3 to 4 years, or when they become root-bound in their current container.

Humidity & Misting

African Lilies prefer moderate humidity levels but are quite adaptable and can tolerate the dry air found in most homes.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and ensure good airflow for African Lily.

• Outdoor

  Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil for African Lily.

• Hardiness zone

  8-10 USDA

Life cycle

The life of the African Lily (Agapanthus inapertus) begins with the germination of seeds planted in well-drained soil, ideally in the spring after the threat of frost has passed. After germination, the seedlings grow into juvenile plants, developing a clump of strap-shaped leaves. As the plants mature, usually after a couple of years, they enter the flowering stage during summer when tall stalks rise above the foliage, topped with clusters of bell-shaped flowers ranging from dark blue to violet. Following the flowering stage, the plant produces seed pods that ripen, split open, and release seeds to complete the reproductive cycle. In addition to seed propagation, African Lilies can also spread vegetatively through the division of their root systems or offsets. Over time, the plants will go through a period of dormancy in the winter, during which above-ground foliage may die back, especially in cooler climates, before regrowing in the spring.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to early summer

• Propogation: The most popular method of propagating Agapanthus inapertus, commonly known as Lily of the Nile, is through division. This is generally done in the spring, after the threat of frost has passed but before the plant enters its rapid growth phase. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the clump of Agapanthus, ensuring that you get as much of the root system as possible. Gently tease apart individual crowns with a sharp knife or spade, each with a separate section of roots. Replant these divisions into well-preparing soil, spacing them approximately 12 to 18 inches apart (or 30 to 45 centimeters apart) to give them room to grow. Water the newly planted divisions thoroughly to establish them in their new locations. This method not only helps propagate the plant but also invigorates older clumps that may have become too dense, resulting in more vigorous growth and better blooms.