Gather a bloom once, savor it for years: Alan Titchmarsh extols the virtues of the agapanthus
Agapanthus, commonly known as the African lily or Lily of the Nile, has come a long way since it was first encountered by British gardeners in the 17th century. Alan Titchmarsh, a gardener, writer, novelist, and broadcaster, recalls his first encounter with Agapanthus at Kew Gardens in the late 1960s, where more tender species were grown under glass.
Originally, some Agapanthus species like Agapanthus africanus were only borderline hardy and needed winter protection. However, hybrids bred in the mid-20th century, notably the Headbourne Hybrids developed in Hampshire, showed much greater hardiness, sufficient to survive most British winters.
These modern hybrids mostly derive from A. praecox, A. campanulatus, and the less hardy A. africanus. The Headbourne Hybrids, bred in the 1940s-50s by Hon Lewis Palmer, marked a step toward more durable cultivars. Agapanthus has since evolved from a marginally hardy exotic to a reliable, resilient perennial with considerable garden merit.
Agapanthus thrive in sunny spots and well-drained soil. They can survive for several years in large pots in John Innes No.3 peat-free compost. Now, Agapanthus no longer require cossetting and winter protection, as they can be grown outdoors in all but the coldest locations.
Agapanthus are hugely useful as summer-flowering plants, blooming after border perennials in June. They are available in a variety of shades, including blue, 'black' (not quite), 'Lady Grey', and white. The Everpanthus Series, such as 'Ever White' and 'Midnight Sky', are suitable for containers and limited spaces, with an extended flowering season.
Agapanthus are noted for their strappy leaves and umbels of blue or white flowers on tall stems. They can be had in flower for a month or more in July and August. It is recommended to mulch Agapanthus generously in autumn to ensure their survival in colder climates.
Agapanthus has become a favourite for its exotic beauty, architectural flower heads, and resilience in drought conditions. It weaves its way into one's affections over a period of years. For those interested in learning more about Agapanthus and other garden wonders, Alan Titchmarsh's book 'Chatsworth: The gardens and the people who made them' is available now. Published by Ebury, the book costs £35.
In conclusion, Agapanthus is a plant that has stood the test of time, proving to be a hardy, drought-tolerant plant with a rich history of cultivation and breeding in the UK. Its journey from exotic rarity to a reliable garden favourite is a testament to the power of horticultural innovation and the enduring appeal of these beautiful plants.
Agapanthus, with its rich history, has evolved from being a slightly hardy exotic to a resilient perennial, enjoying a place in home-and-garden landscapes and lifestyles. Today, these plants no longer necessitate cossetting or winter protection, as they can thrive outdoors in most locations.
Despite their air of exotic beauty, Agapanthus are now considered reliable additions to gardens, offering a complicated mix of strappy leaves and tall umbels of blue or white flowers, which can be maintained with simple practices like autumn mulching.
