scientific name: Agapanthus africanus / Agapanthus praecox.

agapanthus lily of the nile

Also known as: Lily of the Nile, African Lily, Blue Lily

Native to the coastal grasslands of South Africa, Agapanthus gets its name from the Greek words for "love" and "flower" — making it literally the flower of love. Its lush, strap-like foliage and tall stems topped with globe-shaped clusters of blue, purple, or white blooms make it a bold, low-maintenance choice for borders, containers, and landscape focal points.

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plant tips

  • water

    Water deeply once a week during spring and summer. Once established, it handles dry spells well with minimal watering.

  • light

    Thrives in full sun to partial shade with at least 4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best blooming.

  • size

    Dwarf varieties reach about 2 ft. tall, while standard varieties grow 4–5 ft. tall with wide, clumping foliage.

care

Plant Agapanthus in full sun for the best blooms — 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily keeps flowering at its peak, though partial shade is tolerated. Hardy in zones 8–11, it also thrives in containers, making it a great option for cooler climates. Water daily after planting until established, then reduce to as needed during dry or hot periods. For container plants, water when the top inch of soil feels dry, allowing good drainage to keep roots healthy and blooms coming strong.

  • porch and patio ready

    Agapanthus makes a bold statement in a large planter on any patio or outdoor living space. Its tall, elegant flower stalks and deep blue blooms add a dramatic pop of color that keeps the space feeling fresh all summer long.

  • landscape showstopper

    Mass plant Agapanthus along driveways, garden beds, or open lawns for a stunning wave of blue that commands attention. Its lush, strappy foliage looks great year-round and the summer blooms take it to the next level.