Appearance
"Agapanthus praecox" is a variable species with open-faced flowers. It is divided into three subspecies: subsp. "praecox", subsp. "orientalis" and subsp. "minimus."A. o. subsp. praecox
This subspecies occurs in Eastern Cape province of South Africa. It usually grows to between 0.8 and 1 metre tall and has 10-11 leathery leaves. The blue flowers, appear from December to February. These have perianth segments which are greater than 50 mm in length.
A. o. subsp. orientalis
This subspecies occurs in Eastern Cape and southern KwaZulu-Natal. Although it is about the same height as subsp. praecox, it has up to 20 poisonous, strap-like leaves per plant which are arching and are not leathery. These range in length from 20 to 70 cm long and 3 to 5 cm wide. Flower colour ranges from blue to white. Shiny black seeds are produced in three-sided capsules. These have perianth segments which are less than 50 mm in length.
A. o. subsp. minimus
Occurring in the southeastern Western Cape and Eastern Cape, this subspecies is the smallest, ranging in height from 300 to 600 mm. It has a longer flowering season, from November to March. Flower colour includes white and various shades of blue.
Naming
Common Agapanthus, Blue Lily, African Lily or Lily of the Nile.Local names for this species include "agapant", "bloulelie", "isicakathi" and "ubani". Most of the cultivated plants of the genus "Agapanthus" are hybrids or cultivars of this species.
Distribution
The species is naturalised in Australia, New Zealand and the Isles of Scilly.Agapanthus praecox subsp. orientalis is highly regarded for being tough in sun and heat, long-flowering, and is a favourite for many councils in Australia for the landscaping of roads and other public areas which do not get watered. The plant is still widely planted but in some areas it is considered a weed, and planting has been discontinued, although it is not generally regarded as highly invasive.
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