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Also Known As: African-Lily

Botanical Name: Agapanthus africanus

Pronunciation: ag-a-PAN-thus af-ri-KAH-nus

Family Name: Amaryllidaceae (amaryllis)

Origin: South Africa

Common Relatives: daffodil, narcissus, lycoris, alstroemeria, clivia

Introduction: On thin stalks of up to three feet that lean luxuriously toward the sun, the African lily is deserving of its botanical name, derived from the Greek for love (agape) and flower (anthos). With its large airy flower clusters of periwinkle or white, unafraid to dip and bend, this showy evergreen perennial lords it over smaller flowers, flaunting its appetite for life. Take care when providing water, as droplets will leave noticeable spots on the blooms and leaves.

Interesting Facts:

• Good for large-scale arrangements. Also known as Greek love flower. Flowers (inflorescence) can be 6-8 inches in diameter. Flower stalks can be 2-3 feet tall.
• Should be harvested when the papery bract (modified bract) just below the inflorescence (flowers) unfolds, which is just prior to (or at the same time) the first outer flowers begin to open.
• Commonly grown as a landscape plant where there are large and dwarf forms. The smaller form is generally A. mooreanus.
• Premature flower fall is caused mainly by ethylene, especially for immature buds. The common blue flower cultivar 'Mooreanus' is less prone to premature flower fall than the white flowering 'Aldidus'.
• Should be stored fewer than five days to avoid severe reduction in flower life.

• Flower heads up to 6 inches in diameter
• plant is evergreen tufted perennial, monocotyledon, leaves mostly parallel veined

Flower Color: blue, white

Fragrance: none

Decorative Life: 6-14 days

Special Care Tips: Recut stems under water and place into a fresh flower food solution.

Ethylene Sensitivity: yes