Agapanthus africanus Twister – A Stunning Garden Addition

African Lily

Agapanthus ‘Twister’ is a beautiful and versatile perennial that adds a striking focal point to any garden. This variety of Agapanthus, also known as the African Lily, is particularly notable for its unique bi-colour flowers. The combination of pure white and vibrant blue blooms creates a dramatic contrast that can brighten any border, pot, or pathway. Agapanthus’ Twister’ should be on your list if you’re looking for an eye-catching plant with low-maintenance requirements. Let’s explore the key aspects of growing and caring for this stunning plant.

Agapanthus ‘Twister’ produces beautiful trumpet-shaped flowers that are white at the base and fade to deep blue-violet at the tips. This bi-colour effect is especially striking when grown in groups or contrasted with solid-colour flowers. The flowers bloom on tall, sturdy stems, reaching heights of up to 80 cm (31 inches), making them an ideal plant for adding height to borders and garden beds.

Agapanthus ‘Twister’ leaves are lush and strap-like, forming a dense clump of foliage that provides year-round interest. Although the flowers are the main attraction, the evergreen or semi-evergreen leaves (depending on the climate) keep your garden looking tidy, even outside the flowering season.

Agapanthus ‘Twister’ blooms from mid to late summer, offering months of colourful display when other plants may start to fade. The flowers also attract bees and other pollinators, making it an excellent choice for wildlife-friendly gardens.

Providing the right growing conditions is essential to getting the most out of Agapanthus ‘Twister’. This plant thrives in full sun, so choose a location where it can soak up plenty of light. In terms of soil, it prefers well-drained, fertile soil with plenty of organic matter. While it can tolerate a range of soil types, from sandy to clay, good drainage is essential to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.

Agapanthus ‘Twister’ is relatively drought-tolerant once established, but keeping the soil moist during the growing season is essential, especially during dry spells. Regular watering will help ensure the plant produces plenty of healthy blooms. However, be careful not to overwater, leading to soggy soil and poor plant health.

Agapanthus ‘Twister’ is relatively hardy for an Agapanthus species, tolerating temperatures to about -10°C (14°F). In areas where winters are frigid, it’s a good idea to provide some protection, such as mulching the base of the plant to protect the roots from frost. In milder climates, ‘Twister’ can be grown as an evergreen perennial, but in colder regions, it may die back to the ground and regrow in the spring.

If you live in an area where temperatures regularly drop below -10°C (14°F), consider growing Agapanthus ‘Twister’ in pots so you can move them to a sheltered location or greenhouse during the winter months. Containers should be at least 30 cm (12 inches) in diameter and filled with a well-draining potting mix. Be sure to water sparingly during the winter months to prevent root rot.

Agapanthus ‘Twister’ can be planted in spring or autumn, depending on your climate. For best results, plant bulbs or young plants in groups of three to five, allowing about 30 cm (12 inches) of space between each plant. This will enable them to spread and display more dramatically when they bloom.

To propagate Agapanthus ‘Twister’, you can divide the plant in early spring or after it has finished flowering in the autumn. Dig up the clump and carefully separate the roots, ensuring each division has several leaves and roots attached. Replant the divisions at the same depth as the original plant and water well.

Agapanthus ‘Twister’ is versatile and works well in various garden settings. Its tall flower stems make it a perfect choice for the back of a border, where the blooms can rise above shorter plants. The striking bi-colour flowers look stunning with complementary colours like deep purples, whites, or silvers. Consider planting Agapanthus ‘Twister’ alongside lavender, salvia, or ornamental grasses for a sophisticated, textural display.

If you’re growing Agapanthus ‘Twister’ in containers, they can be placed on patios, terraces, or near entrances to create a welcoming and stylish feature. The tall stems and dramatic blooms can also be used as cut flowers, bringing the beauty of your garden indoors.

Agapanthus ‘Twister’ is one of those plants that never fails to turn heads in my garden — honestly, that’s part of why I love it. The bi-colour blooms, with their crisp white centres and rich violet-blue tips, always stop visitors in their tracks. I grow mine in large terracotta pots on the patio where they catch the afternoon sun, and every summer they put on an incredible display. What I appreciate most is how little fuss they need — good drainage, a sunny spot, and the occasional feed. Even in winter, I wrap the pots up and tuck them near a sheltered wall. Whether you’re looking for a bold statement plant or something elegant and pollinator-friendly, ‘Twister’ delivers. It’s a firm favourite in my patch, and I wouldn’t be without it.

Agapanthus ‘Twister’ is a beautiful and reliable addition to any garden. Its unique bi-colour flowers and low-maintenance nature make it a favourite among gardeners. Whether you plant it in a border, container, or mixed planting scheme, Agapanthus ‘Twister’ will provide months of summer colour and interest. With the proper care and attention, you’ll enjoy these stunning blooms year after year.

If you’re interested in learning more about Agapanthus ‘Twister,’ the RHS has a lovely article you can read here.

If this plant caught your eye, wait until you see Hydrangea petiolaris ‘Silver Lining’.

For more information on Herbaceous Perennials, please click here.

Q: What makes ‘Twister’ different from other Agapanthus?

A: ‘Twister’ is known for its striking two-tone flowers. Each bloom starts with a crisp white base that deepens into vivid blue-purple at the tips. With dozens of flowers per head, it creates a show-stopping display in borders and containers alike.

Q: How tall does ‘Twister’ grow?

A: This compact variety typically grows to 60–75cm (24–30 inches). Its slender stems hold flower heads above the neat, strap-like foliage, making it ideal for garden beds and pots.

Q: When does it flower?

A: ‘Twister’ blooms from July to September, offering colour into early autumn. Each flower head lasts several weeks, ensuring a long and vibrant flowering season.

Q: What growing conditions does it need?

A: ‘Twister’ thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. While it adapts to most soil types, it performs best in rich, moisture-retentive compost that doesn’t become waterlogged.

Q: How hardy is Agapanthus ‘Twister’?

A: This variety is hardy down to -10°C (14°F). In colder parts of the UK, apply a mulch over the crown in winter or grow it in a container that can be moved to a sheltered area during freezing weather.

Q: Can I grow it in containers?

A: Absolutely. ‘Twister’ is ideal for pots. Choose a container at least 30cm (12 inches) deep with good drainage. Slightly pot-bound roots often encourage better flowering performance.

Q: What maintenance does it need?

A: Regular deadheading helps keep the plant tidy and can encourage more blooms. Remove any yellowing leaves, and divide congested clumps every 4 to 5 years in spring to maintain health and vigour.

Q: How often should I water and feed?

A: Water regularly during the growing season, especially in dry spells or if grown in containers. In spring, apply a balanced feed. Once flower buds appear, switch to a high-potash feed to support flowering.

Q: Does it attract wildlife?

A: Yes, the nectar-rich blooms attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. The seed heads also add architectural interest and can provide food for birds in winter.

Q: What problems should I watch for?

A: Slugs and snails may damage young shoots and flower stems, especially in spring. Please ensure the soil drains well to avoid root rot, which can occur in soggy conditions.

Q: Where can I buy Agapanthus ‘Twister’?

A: You can buy Agapanthus ‘Twister’ from most garden centres and online plant retailers. It’s also available from specialist nurseries and major gardening websites during the planting seasons.