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AgapanthusAgapanthus africanusLacy Bird Encyclopedia
focal · easy · mid

Agapanthus

Agapanthus africanus · aka African lily, lily of the Nile, blue lily

Agapanthus lifts a bold, spherical head of blue or white trumpet florets on a tall, clean stem, giving arrangements instant height and a cool, contemporary silhouette. Native to South Africa and beloved in summer gardens, it reads as both architectural and airy, perfect for large-scale and pedestal designs. Florists use it for its striking scale and its rare, true-blue tones, which are hard to find in cut flowers. It shines in modern summer weddings, tall arrangements and statement corporate work.

At a glance
FamilyAmaryllidaceae
OriginSouth Africa
Peak seasonJuly, August
AvailabilityJune, July, August, September
Stem length40–100 cm
Vase life7–14 days
Colorsblue, purple, white
Price tiermid
Conditioning

Recut the thick, fleshy stems on a slant and condition in cool, clean water with flower food, choosing heads with only a few florets open. Keep water fresh, as the sappy stems can cloud it quickly. Handle the tall stems with care to protect the rounded flower head, and support them so they stay upright while conditioning. Store cool and out of direct heat to slow floret drop.

Care in the vase
  • Buy with a few florets open per head
  • Recut thick stems cleanly
  • Change water often to keep it clear
  • Support tall stems while conditioning
  • Keep cool and out of direct sun
Design role & symbolism
Symbolismlove, loyalty, beauty, purity
Occasionswedding, summer wedding, tall arrangements, everyday, corporate, installation
focalsummerbluearchitecturaltallwedding

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