Agapanthus africanus 'Albus'
A white‑flowered form of the evergreen species, grown for clean, rounded umbels that light up summer borders and patios. Plants form clumps of strap‑like leaves and send up sturdy stems with pure white, funnel‑shaped florets. Best in full sun and moist but well‑drained soil, it is generally hardy only in mild‑winter parts of North America and is container‑grown elsewhere. As with the genus, all parts are harmful if eaten and the sap can irritate skin.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: evergreen species selection
- Height × spread: 30 to 48 in (75 to 120 cm) × 24 to 36 in (60 to 90 cm)
- Bloom window: mid to late summer
- Color & flower form: pure white, funnel‑shaped florets in rounded umbels
- Fragrance: 0 none
- USDA hardiness: varies by climate; commonly perennial in zones 8 to 10; container elsewhere
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown
- Cut‑flower notes: sturdy stems; vase life about 7 days when cut on stalks
- Pet safety: avoid
How it differs
- Pure white flowers instead of the genus‑typical blues and violets.
- Evergreen habit where winters are frost free.
- Species‑like, graceful foliage mound with taller scapes in bloom.
Strengths
- Bright, high‑contrast flower displays in summer.
- Useful in white gardens and evening plantings.
- Performs in containers in cooler regions.
Care in one minute
- Full sun with shelter from strong, cold winds.
- Moist, well‑drained soil; enrich with organic matter.
- Water consistently through bud set; reduce after flowering.
- Feed in late spring; avoid high nitrogen.
- Deadhead spent stems; divide clumps when flowering declines.
- Overwinter containers frost‑free where temperatures drop below the mid‑20s°F.
Watch‑outs
- Less cold hardy than many deciduous hybrids.
- Requires drainage; prolonged wet feet can cause rot.
- Protect foliage from snail and slug feeding.
Best uses (tags)
containers, borders, white‑garden, cutting, coastal
Provenance note
A long‑grown white selection of the South African species *Agapanthus africanus*, recognized in major botanic references.
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden – Agapanthus africanus species profile
- Kew – Plants of the World Online: Agapanthus africanus
- CTAHR, University of Hawai’i – Lei plants (vase life reference)
- UC ANR – Agapanthus spp. safety note
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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