Agapanthus

A Chance Discovery with a Touch of Surprise

Sometimes, it’s the unexpected finds in the garden that captivate us most—like my remontant Agapanthus, which I stumbled upon years ago while digging in a garden. Back then, it was a modest, unassuming rhizome. I nurtured, cared for, and propagated it. Today, it has flourished into a remarkable plant that surprises me anew every year.

Remontant – What Does It Mean?

Most Agapanthus species bloom just once a year: some earlier, others later in the summer. But this one is special. It belongs to the remontant variety, meaning it blooms multiple times annually—an unusual trait for Agapanthus. This year, my plant even had a third blooming phase! It’s a true phenomenon, the likes of which I’ve never encountered before.

Fascinating Facts About Remontant Agapanthus

This rarity isn’t mere happenstance; it’s an exciting testament to the diversity of the plant world. Varieties like England’s “Bressingham Blue” (a renowned, hardy, single-bloom cultivar) showcase the potential these plants hold. This variety is even hardy enough to be planted outdoors in Central Europe. To achieve my plant’s third blooming phase, attentive care is essential: after each bloom, I prune the faded stems, fertilize the plant, and water it regularly in warm temperatures—ensuring ideal growth conditions. And voilà—it rewards me with new blooms!

Care Tips for Thriving Agapanthus

    1.    Location: Sunny and sheltered. Agapanthus loves warmth and plenty of sun. They thrive in pots, blooming more profusely when slightly root-bound.
    2.    Soil: Well-draining and humus-rich. Waterlogged soil can harm the rhizomes.
    3.    Care: Prune after blooming, fertilize regularly, and water only during the growing season. They can survive weeks without water. In winter, provide protection: either in a cool, bright space or, for varieties like ‘Bressingham Blue,’ with straw and leaves in garden beds. This variety retains its evergreen foliage.
    4.    Propagation: Divide rhizomes for quick, straightforward propagation—a perfect project for patient gardeners looking to expand their plant family.

Agapanthus – A Garden Showstopper

Often called the Lily of the Nile, Agapanthus is not only low-maintenance but also a striking addition to any garden. Whether as a solitary statement or paired with other flowering plants, its simple yet elegant flower spheres add a unique charm to any garden corner. They also bloom for an impressively long period, ensuring your garden remains vibrant and captivating.