Agapanthus 'SUMMER SKIES'

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, we are very lucky to have good breeders here in Europe who made several hardy hybrids.

Summer Skies is an African blue lily introduction by Steve Hottovy of Beyond Green Nursery. It produces what its name promises: sky blue flowers in summer. They are funnel-shaped, formed in large, somewhat pendent umbels atop 80-100 cm tall, strong stems. Strap-like leaves are about 2-3 cm wide, mid green. It blooms in July and August.

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 end of summer. Though, once established it withstands drought. 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.

Blue Yonder 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 warm remove all mulch and cut off all leaves so that the plant can begin new growth.

Last update 11-09-2014