Unpack bare roots or rhizomes on arrival and plant them within a week. Until then, keep them somewhere cool and ensure the roots remain slightly moist, never wet.
Agapanthus 'Black Arrow' is a dramatic and decidedly contemporary African lily, valued for its deep, inky, near-black tones and strong vertical presence. From early summer, slender black stems rise cleanly above neat clumps of strap-shaped green foliage, each one tipped with elongated buds so dark they appear almost black. As the season warms, these buds gradually unfurl into rich violet-blue flowers, held in elegant, rounded heads that bring depth and contrast to planting schemes. The colouring of Agapanthus 'Black Arrow' feels refined and architectural, making it particularly effective alongside silvers, grasses or pale-toned companions. Bees and other pollinators are quick to visit, drawn to the open blooms and steady nectar supply.
Growing to around 70cm tall, Agapanthus 'Black Arrow' has a compact, well-balanced habit that suits modern borders, gravel gardens and generous containers equally well. It performs best in full sun and well-drained soil, where it shows good drought tolerance once established and requires very little ongoing care. Deadheading spent flowerheads will encourage a longer display, while the sturdy black stems also make excellent cut flowers for indoor arrangements. More winter-hardy than many agapanthus, Agapanthus 'Black Arrow' can usually remain in the ground, with lifting only necessary in the coldest regions. With its moody colouring and poised silhouette, Agapanthus 'Black Arrow' brings sophistication and a quietly confident edge to any garden.
Quantity
Plant profile
Plant calendar
Remove the packaging straight away, check the compost and water thoroughly if dry. Check the plant’s hardiness before placing it outdoors. Plant into a border or permanent container within a month, choosing the position recommended for the variety. Keep the top of the root ball level with the surrounding soil, firm gently and water well.
Soak the roots in water for three to six hours immediately before planting. Keep any crown, buds or emerging shoots above the water where possible.
Pot most bare roots into 15–20cm pots filled with peat-free multipurpose compost. Large or depth-sensitive roots, including peonies, are often best planted directly into borders.
Arrange the roots naturally without bending them. Cover the roots completely, positioning the crown and buds at the depth recommended for that particular perennial.
Keep pots in a sheltered outdoor position and water whenever the compost begins to dry. Grow on until roots hold the compost together when lifted from the pot.
Plant into a suitable border or permanent container once well rooted. Add a label and water regularly throughout the first growing season while the perennial establishes.
- Botanical name
- Agapanthus 'Black Arrow'
- Flower colour
- Purple
- Established height
- 70cm-1m
- Established spread
- 50-70cm
- Growing skill
- Easy to grow
- Habit
-
Clump-forming
Upright - Hardiness
- Fully hardy
- Leaf colour
- Green, near-black stems
- Mouse resistant
- Yes
- Plant size
- 1
- Plant spacing
- 10 plants per m2
- Pollinator friendly
- Yes
- Position
-
Sheltered
Exposed - Rabbit resistant
- Yes
- Scented
- No
- Soil acidity
- Any
- Soil moisture
-
Free draining
Dry - Soil type
-
Loam
Sandy
Stony
Multipurpose compost - Suitable for
-
Large containers
Borders
Gravel gardens
Wildlife gardens
Coastal gardens
Exotic gardens
Cottage gardens
Low maintenance gardens
Cut flower gardens - Sunlight
- Full sun
- Toxicity
- No report
- Years to establish
- 3-4 years
Agapanthus 'Black Arrow' reviews
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Expert care from
choice to delivery
Our horticulturalists prepare every bulb and plant with the utmost care. From selection to packing, each one receives expert attention before beginning its journey to your garden.