How to Grow Agapanthus Storm Cloud
Agapanthus Storm Cloud
Agapanthus africanus 'Storm Cloud'
flowerAgapanthus Storm Cloud is a stunning ornamental flowering plant featuring deep blue-purple flowers arranged in large spherical umbels atop tall stems. This cultivar is prized for its dramatic dark coloring and long blooming period, making it a striking focal point in borders, containers, and landscape designs.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 8b-11; can be grown in zone 8a with winter protection
Sign up to see your zone highlighted.
Growth Stages
Seedling/Establishment
6-12 monthsYoung plants develop long, strap-like green leaves in clumps with minimal flowering
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Protect from extreme cold. Do not expect flowers in first year.
Vegetative Growth
6-12 monthsPlant develops increasingly larger clumps of long, arching foliage with multiple growth points
Water regularly during growing season. Feed monthly with balanced fertilizer. Clumps should reach substantial size.
Budding
3-4 weeksTall flower stems emerge from the center of the clump with visible green buds forming at the apex
Continue regular watering. Increase potassium-rich fertilizer to encourage bud development. Stake if necessary in windy locations.
Flowering
6-8 weeksStunning deep blue-purple flowers open in dense spherical clusters (umbels) atop 24-36 inch stems
Maintain consistent moisture. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage extended blooming. Support tall stems if needed.
Seed Set & Dormancy
8-12 weeksFlowers fade and seed pods develop; foliage begins to yellow as plant prepares for dormancy
Reduce watering gradually. Remove dead foliage in late fall/early winter. Leave seed heads for winter interest if desired.
Common Pests
-
Increase humidity, spray with water, apply neem oil if severe
-
Remove with cotton swab dipped in alcohol, spray with insecticidal soap
-
and
Hand-pick, use beer traps, apply copper barriers or food-grade diatomaceous earth
-
Prune affected leaves, apply horticultural oil in dormant season
Uses
Not edible
CulinaryAgapanthus is purely ornamental and not consumed. All parts may cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals. [source]
Cut flowers and arrangements
CraftThe striking deep blue-purple flower spheres are excellent for fresh floral arrangements, adding dramatic color and architectural form. They also dry well for dried arrangements. [source]
Pollinator attraction
WildlifeAgapanthus flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, supporting pollinator populations in the garden. [source]
Landscape focal point
HouseholdThe bold dark blue flower clusters and architectural foliage make Agapanthus Storm Cloud an excellent specimen plant for borders, containers, and contemporary garden designs. [source]
Traditional herbal use
MedicinalIn traditional African medicine, Agapanthus has been used for various purposes, though modern evidence is limited and consultation with herbalists is recommended. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Agapanthus is grown for ornamental flowers rather than harvest. Cut flowers for arrangements when most umbel florets have opened; they last 1-2 weeks in a vase. Leave some flowers on the plant for wildlife. Deadhead spent flowers to prolong blooming season.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The name 'Agapanthus' comes from Greek words 'agape' (love) and 'anthos' (flower), literally meaning 'flower of love'
- 🌱 The 'Storm Cloud' cultivar earned its name from the dramatically deep blue-purple flowers that resemble storm clouds against the sky
- 🌱 Agapanthus can live for decades in the right conditions, with mature clumps becoming increasingly spectacular over time
Want personalized planting timelines?
Sign up to get frost dates, task lists, and more for your zone.
Get started free