African Lily Plant Care
Agapanthus africanus (L.) Hoffmanns.
Agapanthus africanus, commonly named the African lily, is a flowering plant from the genus Agapanthus found only on rocky sandstone slopes of the winter rainfall fynbos from the Cape Peninsula to Swellendam. It is also called the lily of the Nile in spite of only growing in South Africa.
Every 7–10 days
Full sun to partial shade
50–80°F
40–70%
What Is the African Lily?
African Lily (Agapanthus africanus) belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family within the Agapanthus genus. African Lily is also known as Lily of the Nile, Agapanthus.
African Lily displays a clumping perennial herb growth habit, reaching up to 3 inches tall with a spread of approximately 2 inches. African Lily produces showy clusters of blue or white trumpet-shaped flowers.
Leaf size: approximately 18 inches.
How Often Should You Water a African Lily?
Agapanthus africanus requires watering every 7–10 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–10 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the African Lily Need?
African Lily thrives in full sun to partial shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 2000–8000 lux. Avoid placing African Lily in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Full sun to partial shade
2000–8000 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the African Lily Prefer?
Agapanthus africanus grows best at temperatures between 50°F and 80°F. African Lily prefers humidity levels of 40–70%.
Temperature
50–80°F
Humidity
40–70%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a African Lily?
Well-draining, fertile soil with added compost for nutrients. Good drainage is essential for African Lily to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a African Lily?
Repot every 2-3 years in spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a African Lily?
African Lily can be propagated through division of offsets, seeds.
Fertilizing
Every 6 months
During the growing season
Is the African Lily Toxic to Pets and Children?
Non-Toxic
Non-toxic to humans and pets
What Pests and Diseases Affect the African Lily?
African Lily is susceptible to aphids, slugs, snails. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the African Lily Need?
African Lily grows outdoors in USDA Zone 12a. In cooler regions, grow African Lily as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 12a
Keep exploring plants
African Lily is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Agapanthus genus — compare its care with other Agapanthus species on PlantoScan.
African Lily tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.
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