Lily of the Nile (Agapanthus 'Rfdd' DOUBLE DIAMOND) is a South African native perennial that defies its misleading common name, thriving in zones 7-10 with stiff, upright stems topped by rounded clusters of funnel-shaped flowers. This hybrid grows 24-36 inches tall and 12-24 inches wide, blooming from July through September with showy blooms that cut beautifully for arrangements. Deer leave it untouched, butterflies and birds visit consistently, and it requires only moderate water and maintenance once established, making it a low-fuss addition to sunny or partially shaded gardens.
Partial Sun
Moderate
7-10
36in H x 24in W
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Moderate
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The flowers emerge from a dense mound of narrow, grass-like basal leaves, creating sculptural interest even before bloom. These rounded flower clusters rise on leafless stalks in a range of colors from deep purples and blues to whites, and the blooms are excellent for cutting, holding their form and color in the vase for weeks. What genuinely sets this plant apart is its combination of architectural presence and complete indifference to deer pressure, plus the reliable pollinator traffic it draws throughout the summer bloom window.
Lily of the Nile excels as a cut flower, holding its form and color in arrangements for an extended period. In the garden, it serves as a focal point in borders and containers, particularly in regions where winter hardiness is marginal; in zones 7 and colder climates, growing it in tubs allows gardeners to move plants indoors when temperatures drop. The showy flower clusters and upright habit make it equally at home in contemporary gardens or traditional perennial beds.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
If growing in containers in cold climates, move plants outdoors after the last frost date in spring. Gradually acclimate container plants to outdoor conditions over 7-10 days before leaving them in their permanent summer location.
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“Agapanthus has roots in South Africa, though European hybridizers have spent generations developing the colorful, hardy cultivars we grow today. The genus itself represents centuries of plant exploration and selection, with gardeners continually pushing the boundaries of hardiness and color diversity. The 'Double Diamond' designation suggests this particular hybrid represents modern breeding efforts to expand the range of agapanthus varieties available to northern gardeners.”