Agapanthus Orientalis 'Black Pantha'

African Lily / Lily of the Nile

Botanical Name: Agapanthus orientalis ‘Black Pantha’
Family: Amaryllidaceae
Origin: South Africa (garden cultivar)
Plant Type: Evergreen clump-forming perennial (strappy foliage)

Overview

A striking, dark-flowering agapanthus that thrives in Adelaide’s Mediterranean climate. Agapanthus orientalis ‘Black Pantha’ features glossy, strappy green foliage and dramatic deep violet to near-black flower umbels through summer. Tough, low-maintenance, and waterwise once established, it’s ideal for borders, mass plantings, and pots. Its bold colour and clean form make it a standout in both contemporary and native-style landscapes across South Australia.

Key Features

• Mature Size: 0.6–0.8 m H × 0.5–0.7 m W (foliage); flower stems to 1.0–1.2 m
• Growth Rate: 20–35 cm per year under good conditions
• Foliage: Evergreen, mid- to dark-green strappy leaves forming dense, tidy clumps
• Flowers: Large, rounded heads of deep violet to near-black florets; bloom mainly in summer, with occasional repeat flowering in early autumn
• Seasonal Interest: Evergreen structure with a bold summer flowering display; rich flower colour contrasts beautifully against silver or grey foliage
• Wildlife Value: Nectar-rich blooms attract bees and other pollinators; dense foliage provides light shelter for small garden wildlife
• Tolerance: Drought-tolerant once established, heat and wind tolerant, light–moderate frost, second-line coastal, tolerates reflective heat and urban conditions typical of Adelaide suburbs
• Planting Density: Border/edging: 3 per metre (≈ 30–40 cm centres); Mass planting: 30–50 cm apart for dense coverage; Containers: 25–35 cm pots (size up as clumps mature)
• Pet Friendly: Non-toxic to cats and dogs; however, avoid ingestion of sap, which may cause mild irritation in sensitive pets

Where It Works Best

• Sunlight: Full sun to part shade (best flowering in full sun)
• Soil: Well-drained loam, sandy loam, or improved clay; mulch to keep roots cool in summer
• Water Needs: Establishment: 2 deep soaks/week for 8–12 weeks. Established: deep soak every 2–3 weeks in summer (weekly in heatwaves); rarely in winter unless dry
• Maintenance: Remove spent flower stems at the base to encourage rebloom and maintain a neat appearance. Divide clumps every 3–4 years in late winter or early spring to rejuvenate. Apply a slow-release fertiliser in spring.
• Lifespan: 15–25+ years; long-lived, low-care perennial that can be renewed by division
• Climate Zones: Well suited to temperate and Mediterranean regions of South Australia, including Adelaide plains, hills, Fleurieu Peninsula, and second-line coastal gardens
• Soil pH: Neutral to slightly alkaline; adaptable to a wide range of SA soil types

Landscape & Design Ideas

• Mass plant for bold summer colour in borders or verges
• Accent or specimen plant among silver or grassy foliage
• Ideal for modern, Mediterranean, and waterwise designs
• Container feature for patios and entryways
• Mix with Lomandra, Westringia, and Salvia for textural contrast

Why You Will Love It

‘Black Pantha’ delivers rich, near-black blooms that bring drama and contrast to summer landscapes. Hardy, long-lived, and waterwise, it thrives in Adelaide’s heat and performs beautifully in both garden beds and containers—offering reliable colour, structure, and low-maintenance elegance.