Agapanthus africanus Mi Casa

The Mi Casa Agapanthus is a herbaceous rhizomatous semi-evergreen perennial. In June-July, it displays on long sturdy stems a succession of round umbels of pure white flowers, held well above its compact tuft of ribbon-like leaves. Vigorous but not very hardy, this variety is ideal for borders, pathways and large pots on terraces, in sunny and well-drained soil to create an exotic atmosphere in mild climates.

It belongs to the Liliaceae family and descends from different species native to South Africa, including Agapanthus africanus, which is fairly short and native to the Western Cape province. This new hybrid is one of the hardiest in terms of evergreen Agapanthus and can easily withstand negative temperatures up to -5°C, without protection. Like other Agapanthus, it develops from a short rhizome with fleshy roots. The foliage of Mi Casa Agapanthus forms a compact tuft of medium green, thick, ribbon-like and arching leaves that can be evergreen depending on the mildness of the winter. Its pure white flowers in umbels are carried by sturdy stems that can reach up to 80cm (32in) in height and can therefore be used for cut flowers.

Agapanthus is cultivated in full sun and in rich, well-drained soil, avoiding waterlogged soils, especially in winter. It tolerates drought relatively well, and its flowering will be even more spectacular if it is watered during hot summers. It is a plant for mild climates, so it requires winter protection such as winter fleece and a thick mulch at its base. Tip: Plant it in the ground in a pot to restrict root development and achieve a more abundant flowering every year.

The Mi Casa Agapanthus is used in the background of borders or to border pathways. In cooler regions, plant it in a large pot on a terrace and store it during winters, waiting for better days. Combine it with Oleanders, blue lavenders and Acanthus for an exotic style. Plant evergreen shrubs such as boxwoods in balls with plants that have a lighter appearance such as Stipa tenuissima to bring interest to the garden outside the flowering and foliage period of the Agapanthus. It is a plant that thrives in coastal areas, in an English cottage or in a city garden, in mild climates.