Agapanthus 'ARCTIC STAR'

African blue lily is one of the most attractive summer plants. Even though this perennial comes from South Africa where less hardy species are grown, new varieties and hybrids are bred all over the world, especially warmer climates such as South USA, Australia, and also U.K. where an important group called Headbourne Hybrids was raised. It has become so popular that many other new varieties are said to belong there though honestly they have nothing to do with it. Here in Europe we are lucky to have good breeders, too, who made several hardy hybrids suitable for continental C.E. climate, and we choose the hardiest for you.

For some reason white blooming varieties of African blue lily are significantly hardier than the blue ones which seem to be in loud demand. Still, these white gems enjoy the same level of success, only silently. Why? Because they are no less beautiful. Fancy Arctic Star. 80 cm tall, sturdy stems holding a large umbel of cooling snow white flowers in the middle of summer when the sun is high and the heat is on. Its individual funnel-shaped flowers open continuously from about late June for 6-8 weeks (depending on plant age and maturity). Strap-like leaves are about 2-3 cm wide, mid green. Bred by Richard J.Fulcher.

Grow it in fertile, very well-drained soil. In too wet or boggy soil it will most certainly die. The plants benefit from regular watering and fertilizing from spring until late summer. Though, once established it perfectly withstands drought and heat. In the Mediterranean it belongs to the top favourite summer blooming plants. In our gardens it will be a perfect flowering feature along pathways, at swimming pools, and near patios where you spend most of your relaxing time in summer.

It is a hardy variety (down to USDA zone 6) and all winter protection it needs is heavy mulching. In too cold areas you can double the mulch pile and cover it with a waterproof shelter to keep it from soaking with water and rotting afterwards. Such protection will ensure surviving low minus twenties centigrade. At the end of winter, after danger of severe frosts remove the waterproof cover and half of mulch, and in spring when the temperature gets warmer remove the rest of the mulch and cut off all leaves so that the plant can begin new growth.

Last update 21-06-2020