Agapanthus, often called the African lily, brings a sense of clarity and confidence to summer planting, with its upright stems and perfectly rounded flowerheads. Rising above neat clumps of strap-like foliage, Agapanthus produces globe-shaped umbels packed with starry blooms in shades of white, soft blue and inky violet. There is something wonderfully architectural about Agapanthus; it feels crisp and composed, yet never cold, lending structure to borders just when the garden is hitting its stride. In British gardens, Agapanthus has become a firm favourite for its ability to look equally at home in contemporary schemes, gravel gardens or classic mixed borders, offering a long season of interest from early summer onwards.

In the garden, Agapanthus thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, where warmth encourages generous flowering. It performs beautifully in borders, containers or massed plantings, creating repetition and rhythm without overwhelming neighbouring plants. Agapanthus is particularly effective when planted alongside grasses or Mediterranean-style companions, where its clean lines provide contrast and balance. Once established, the African lily is surprisingly resilient, coping well with dry spells and requiring minimal attention beyond an occasional feed. In colder parts of the UK, container-grown Agapanthus can be protected over winter, making it a flexible choice for a wide range of gardens. For gardeners who appreciate plants with presence, reliability and a refined silhouette, Agapanthus delivers summer drama with effortless poise.

Agapanthus comes from Greek, meaning flower of love, a surprisingly romantic name for such a statuesque plant.