How to Grow Agapanthus 'Blue Storm' Northern Star
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Agapanthus 'Blue Storm' Northern Star
Agapanthus africanus 'Blue Storm' Northern Star
flowerA compact ornamental perennial that produces striking deep blue flowers arranged in spherical umbels atop tall stems. This cultivar is renowned for its hardiness and ability to thrive in cooler climates compared to standard Agapanthus. The plant features strap-like green foliage and creates stunning focal points in gardens during mid to late summer bloom.
When should you plant Agapanthus 'Blue Storm' Northern Star in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Agapanthus 'Blue Storm' Northern Star timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Agapanthus 'Blue Storm' Northern Star
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Agapanthus 'Blue Storm' Northern Star blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 4-10, with exceptional cold hardiness for a Northern Star selection
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Vegetative Growth
Spring through early summerMature clump of arching green foliage expanding outward. Plant develops more leaves and increases in diameter.
Water moderately during dry spells. Feed with balanced fertilizer in spring. Remove any dead or damaged leaves.
Flowering
6-8 weeks, typically July-SeptemberTall flower stalks emerge from foliage center, each topped with spherical umbels of deep blue flowers. Blooms progress from bottom to top of flower head.
Stake tall varieties if needed in windy locations. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage extended blooming. Water consistently during flowering.
Seed Development
September-OctoberFlowers fade; seed pods form in spherical clusters. Foliage begins to yellow and decline as plant enters dormancy.
Allow some flowers to remain for seed formation and winter interest if desired. Otherwise, remove seed heads. Reduce watering.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase humidity with regular misting; use insecticidal soap if severe; strong water spray to dislodge
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Remove with rubbing alcohol on cotton swab; treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap for infestations
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Scrape off manually; treat with horticultural oil during dormancy or active growing season
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Remove by hand; use copper barriers or slug traps; encourage natural predators
Uses
Ornamental garnish
CulinaryWhile not edible, the striking blue flower umbels are occasionally used as temporary table decoration or for special event floral arrangements. [source]
Cut flowers and dried arrangements
CraftLong-lasting cut flowers ideal for fresh arrangements. Seed heads dry naturally and can be preserved for winter craft projects and dried bouquets. [source]
Landscape focal point
HouseholdServes as a striking specimen plant, border accent, or massed planting for dramatic summer color. Excellent for Mediterranean, contemporary, and pollinator gardens. [source]
Pollinator attraction
WildlifeFlowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. Provides important mid to late summer nectar source when many plants have finished blooming. [source]
Traditional herbal use
MedicinalIn South African traditional medicine, Agapanthus has been used for various purposes, though modern clinical evidence is limited. Not recommended for internal use without professional guidance. [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 an ornamental; cut flowers for arrangements when fully open. Cut stems at base with sharp knife in early morning. Flowers last 1-2 weeks in vase. Allow seed heads to persist on plant for winter interest or remove promptly to redirect energy to root system development. For Northern Star cultivars specifically, the deep blue coloring is most intense in cooler climates.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Agapanthus 'Northern Star' represents a significant breeding achievement, making these African lilies reliably hardy in zones as cold as 4, where standard Agapanthus would not survive winter without protection.
- 🌱 The name 'Agapanthus' derives from Greek words 'agape' (love) and 'anthos' (flower), literally meaning 'flower of love.' In Victorian times, these plants symbolized love and were popular in grand estates.
- 🌱 The deep blue coloring in 'Blue Storm' varieties intensifies in cooler climates with adequate sunlight, making Northern climates ideal for achieving the most vibrant flower color.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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