Overview
Agapanthus inapertus is a plant with a clump-forming perennial habit in the genus Agapanthus, part of the Amaryllidaceae family, with strap-like leaves foliage. Agapanthus inapertus grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include borders, containers and coastal gardens.
About
Agapanthus inapertus, the Drakensberg agapanthus, drooping agapanthus, or closed African lily, is a species of flowering plant in the family Amaryllidaceae, native to open grasslands, forest margins and mountainous, rocky areas of Mozambique, Eswatini (Swaziland), and South Africa.
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About the genus
Agapanthus is a genus of plants, the only one in the subfamily Agapanthoideae of the family Amaryllidaceae. The subfamily was formerly treated as a separate family, Agapanthaceae. The family is in the monocot order Asparagales.
Wikipedia contributors, "Agapanthus", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Agapanthus
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Agapanthus
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Agapanthus inapertus size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Clump-forming perennial
- Foliage
- Strap-like leaves
- Suggested uses
- Borders, containers, coastal gardens
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Agapanthus inapertus
- Propagation
- Division, seed sowing
- Pest resistance
- Susceptible to agapanthus gall midge
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-resistant
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Agapanthus inapertus?
Agapanthus inapertus prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Agapanthus inapertus need?
Agapanthus inapertus grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Agapanthus inapertus hardy in the UK?
Agapanthus inapertus has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Agapanthus inapertus?
Division, seed sowing.
More in the Agapanthus genus
- Agapanthus 'Maureen'African Lily

- Agapanthus 'Black Buddhist'African Lily
- Agapanthus 'Northern Star'Lily of the Nile
- Agapanthus nutansAfrican Lily