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Herbaceous Perennial

Agapanthus 'Blue Ice'

African lily 'Blue Ice'

An evergreen perennial to about 1m, with strap-shaped, glossy leaves, purple at the base. Large rounded umbels of very pale blue flower are produced on strong, upright stems from mid-summer to early autumn

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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Blue Green
Autumn Blue Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

West–facing or East–facing or South–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H3
Botanical details
Family
Amaryllidaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Clump forming
Potentially harmful
Humans/Pets (dogs, cats): harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Genus

Agapanthus are clump-forming perennials with narrowly strap-shaped leaves, evergreen in some species, and erect stems bearing umbels of funnel-shaped blue or white flowers

Name status

Accepted

How to grow

Cultivation

In mild areas, grow in well-drained soil in a sheltered, sunny position. Otherwise grow in a container positioned in full sun. Water well during the growing season and liquid feed monthly from spring to flowering. Overwinter the whole container in a cold greenhouse. See agapanthus cultivation

Propagation

Propagate by division every three to four years in spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Coastal
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Mediterranean climate plants
  • Cut flowers
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Wall side borders
Pruning

No need to cut down in autumn as the seedheads look attractive over winter

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs and snails and agapanthus gall midge

Diseases

May be susceptible to a virus

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