Agapanthus ‘Purple Heart’

Description

Agapanthus ‘Purple Heart’ is an eye-catching perennial known for its large flower heads featuring deep purple exteriors and lighter lilac interiors with striking dark stripes. Ideal for adding height and colour to garden borders or patio planters, Agapanthus ‘Purple Heart’ blooms from June to October, reaching a height of around 60cm.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: Plant Agapanthus ‘Purple Heart’ in early spring when the soil is warming up. This encourages robust root growth and a healthy start to the growing season.
• Autumn: Alternatively, planting Agapanthus in autumn allows the plant to establish itself before the cooler months, ensuring a strong foundation for the following season.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Agapanthus thrives in full sun. Ensure it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to promote abundant blooming and healthy growth.
• Soil: Choose well-drained soil to prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot. While Agapanthus can adapt to various soil types, optimal drainage is essential for vigorous growth and vibrant flowers.

Planting Instructions

1. Preparing the Hole: Dig a hole twice the width and the same depth as the root ball of the plant. This gives the roots ample space to spread and establish.
2. Soil Preparation: Mix compost or well-rotted organic matter into the soil to improve fertility and drainage, providing an ideal environment for Agapanthus.
3. Planting: Position your Agapanthus in the hole with the top of the root ball level with the surrounding soil. Backfill with soil, firming gently around the plant to eliminate air pockets.
4. Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil and encourage initial root establishment.

Watering

• Growing Season: Once established, Agapanthus ‘Purple Heart’ is relatively drought-tolerant. Water moderately during dry periods to maintain healthy foliage and promote prolific flowering.
• Dormant Season: Reduce watering as your Agapanthus enters dormancy. Keep the soil slightly moist but avoid waterlogging, which can harm the roots.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to support new growth and maximise the blooming potential of Agapanthus ‘Purple Heart’.
• Mid-Summer: A light mid-summer feeding will help sustain flowering, ensuring that your Agapanthus continues to produce vibrant blooms throughout the season.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers to prolong the blooming period and maintain the plant’s neat appearance. This encourages more flowers.
• Autumn: After the final blooms, cut back to the base to prepare it for dormancy and promote strong growth in the following year.

Mulching

• Spring: Apply mulch around the base of Agapanthus ‘Purple Heart’ in spring to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
• Winter: Mulching in winter helps protect the roots from temperature fluctuations and provides insulation, keeping Agapanthus ‘Purple Heart’ healthy through the colder months.

Supporting the Plant

• Staking: Agapanthus ‘Purple Heart’ generally has sturdy stems, but staking may be necessary in exposed or windy areas to prevent damage to the flower stalks.

Agapanthus ‘Purple Heart’ is a striking and versatile choice for any garden, providing lush, colourful blooms and graceful foliage. Its impressive flowering season, coupled with minimal maintenance, makes it a popular choice for both garden borders and container planting. With the right care and attention, Agapanthus ‘Purple Heart’ will reward you with beautiful displays year after year.

RHS Details

See more Agapanthus from Proctors