Agapanthus are either deciduous (herbaceous) or evergreen perennials with either bulbous or fleshy roots. As such, they die down each winter, but with a little protection, will spring into growth the following year. The foliage can best be described as strap-like with narrow leaves sprouting from the base of the plant to around 18in (45cm).
The African Blue Lily
The flowers are borne on generally sturdy stems to a height of 24in (60cm) maximum. There are also dwarf varieties. The plants form clumps, and are good for ground cover - being quite dense in the immediate area under the foliage.
Agapanthus were once listed as part of the Allium family - Alliaceae. It is easy to see why this was so when one compares foliage and flowers to the larger alliums. However, the Agapanthus is now rightly listed as being one of the huge and diverse Lily family - Liliacea.
South Africa is the original home of the Agapanthus, with dwarfer evergreen species originating in the coastal areas - often evergreen, whilst the Agapanthus that we normally grow in our beds, borders and containers, are from the moister mountainous regions. Obviously why they are at home in the UK climate. They will however be quite happy in dry areas.
Planting and Growing Agapanthus
Agapanthus are well suited to borders or beds in the garden, and can also be planted in patio pots - either as sole subjects or as part of an integrated scheme. The main problem with growing in a mixed container is the fact that the foliage will swamp or crowd out most other plants in the container over time. If planted in a container with other plants, then best as an annual planting rather than permanent. In the first year of planting the bulb, the foliage will not be as dense.
If grown in containers, then they will invariably need extra protection from frosting in the winter months.
Beds and Borders for Agapanthus
Agapanthus in beds and borders give a long lasting splash of colour and interest for several moths starting late July or Mid August. They are particularly suited to growing with shrubs, as the late summer is not the most colourful time for shrub borders. planted alongside perennials, Agapanthus either blend or contrast with the late summer colours of the herbaceous border, and are a splendid choice for planting with the warmer colours of the hardy salvias, Rudbeckia and rusty colours of the Helianthus and Gaillardias.
I have yet to see them mass planted with Kniphofias (Red hot pokers) and look forward to seeing any pictures you have of any such planting. In the meanwhile the vision persists!