BBC Gardeners' World

Plant details

• Common Name: African blue lily
• Genus: Agapanthus
• Cultivar: 'Castle of Mey'
• Skill Level: experienced
• Exposure: full sun
• Hardiness: hardy
• Soil type: moist, well-drained/light
• Height: 0.6m
• Spread: 0.45m
• Time to divide plants: March to May

Agapanthus are South African plants with showy flowers in shades of blue, violet or white, which are always a focus of attention late in the season. Many are quite tall, including deep blue 'Castle of Mey', although there are shorter hybrids ideal for small beds and 20cm to 25cm (8in to 10in) pots. The plants revel in full sun, especially if backed by a warm wall, and in cold exposed areas need protection in hard winters, either by mulching the crowns or by growing plants in tubs which are mulched or moved indoors.