African Lily
Agapanthus africanus
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Pl. 1B0A — Agapanthus africanus
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IOverview
Overview
African Lily, known botanically as Agapanthus africanus, is a member of the Agavaceae family and thrives in the Cape Provinces of South Africa. This plant is both edible and ornamental, with its bulb being a culinary ingredient. It prefers full to partial sun, moist conditions, and well-draining soil that is light or medium in texture. Hardy in zones 9-10, African Lily can grow up to 1 meter tall, making it an attractive addition to gardens. Its distinctive blue or sometimes white flowers form large, showy clusters atop sturdy stems, setting it apart from other plants in its habitat.
Quick answers
What is African Lily?
African Lily, known botanically as Agapanthus africanus, is a member of the Agavaceae family and thrives in the Cape Provinces of South Africa. This plant is both edible and ornamental, with its bulb being a culinary ingredient.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
African Lily thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist, well-draining soil that is light (sandy) or medium. It grows best in hardiness zones 9-10 but can be grown as an annual in cooler regions. To propagate, divide the bulb in spring. Harvest edible parts from the bulb.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
9-10
Mature size
1.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow African Lily for the first time
8steps
Start with African Lily for a low-maintenance, beginner-friendly gardening project.
- 1
What you'll need
African Lily bulbs, potting soil, containers or garden beds.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the weather starts warming up.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil; mix sand for better drainage if needed. Ensure pots have holes for water to escape.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Plant bulbs 5-10 cm deep, with the pointed end up in the soil.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly but regularly; keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun to partial shade. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, and fertilize once a year in spring.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves and spent flowers for a tidy appearance; cut back foliage after frost if needed.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting to prune, not providing enough sunlight, and using heavy soil without drainage.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Bulb
Edible uses: The African Lily (Agapanthus africanus) is edible and its bulb can be consumed. Typically, the bulb is prepared by cooking or drying before use in dishes. Skip the raw consumption as it may not be palatable.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
1 native · 8 introduced
Distribution
1 native · 8 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 1 native· 8 introduced
Americas1 region
introduced (1)Jamaica
Broader regions
native:Cape Provinces
introduced:Mexico Central, Mexico Gulf, Ascension, Mexico Southwest, Trinidad-Tobago, West Himalaya, Mexico Southeast
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 1b0a0ec6-bcc1-4454-97c4-e03a5535a3c6
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