Agapanthus 'Black Buddhist' (D)

Common name: African lily

Description: Agapanthus 'Black Buddhist' is one of the most dramatically coloured agapanthus cultivars available, producing large, rounded umbels of deep violet-blue to near-black trumpet-shaped flowers that emerge from almost-black buds on striking dark purple stems from midsummer well into autumn. Each petal carries a darker central stripe that adds further depth and refinement to the intensely coloured blooms. The striking combination of near-black stems, midnight buds, and richly pigmented flowers above a clump of bold, strap-shaped dark green foliage gives this compact variety a distinctly theatrical, contemporary quality that suits modern planting schemes and gravel gardens as well as traditional herbaceous borders.

Other benefits: outstanding cut flower, long-lasting decorative seed heads for autumn and winter interest, excellent in containers and gravel gardens, deer and rabbit resistant, suitable for coastal gardens

Wildlife attraction: Bumblebees and butterflies are strongly attracted to the dark, richly coloured flowers from July through to September.

Height & spread (approx.) at 10 years: 90–100cm x 60cm (flowering stems to 100cm; foliage clump to approximately 60cm)

Position: Full sun in a warm, sheltered spot; a south-facing border or sunny patio gives the best flowering results. Container-grown plants often flower more prolifically as restricted roots encourage blooming.

Soil pH: Neutral; tolerant of a range of well-drained soils including sandy and chalky types. Avoid heavy, waterlogged conditions.

Moisture: Moist but well-drained; water regularly throughout the growing season. Ensure good drainage over winter — the crown is vulnerable to persistent wet and cold combined.

Winter hardiness: Hardy to around -10°C (H4); fully hardy in mild and coastal gardens with good drainage. In colder regions apply a generous mulch of dry material over the crown each November, or bring container plants under cover for the winter.