Best of the bunch: Agapanthus (From Worcester News)

Best of the bunch: Agapanthus

10:29am Tuesday 7th August 2007 in Gardening

These stunning herbaceous perennials should just about be coming into their own now, their large, exotic, blue or white trumpet-shaped flowers in rounded clusters perched on sturdy, straight stems above strappy leaves.

While the majestic African agapanthus which prevails in the Channel Islands may be too tender for this country, there are many other varieties which can flower well here given the right conditions. Stick to the Headbourne Hybrids and you should be OK.

They grow to around 2 1/2ft (75cm) and flower between July and September. The smaller A. campanulatus is probably the best to grow in unfavourable situations. Try Isis', which produces lavender flowers, or Albus' if you want white blooms. Grow them in pots in a sunny, sheltered spot on your patio in John Innes No. 3 and you should enjoy success.

Water well in dry weather but keep almost dry in winter. In late autumn remove containers of evergreen agapanthus from the garden and place in a light, dry, frost-free location such as a cold frame or conservatory. Hardier species may be left outdoors in milder areas, with the shelter of a wall for protection and avoiding excessive winter wet. Do not place in a warm position as any winter growth is detrimental to the health of the plant and may reduce flowering. Give those in open ground a dry mulch in autumn or early winter.