Evergreen rhizomatous geophyte. Numerous basal, strap-like leaves, 100-250cm long with mucilaginous sap. 12-30 funnel-shaped flowers, outward facing, deep blue with dark central stripes; borne in large heads at the ends of long unbranched stems.

Blooms especially well after fires.

Greek: agape = love; -anthus = flower: 'Flower of love'.

Agapanthus africanus is the classical species of the genus and was known in the late 17th century in gardens in Europe. It flowered at Hampton Court Palace in 1692 and an illustration of these plants was made by Plukenet who was the gardener at the time.