Troubleshooting
Agapanthus africanus 'Albus' problems — and how to fix them
Agapanthus africanus 'Albus' (Agapanthus africanus 'Albus') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Frost damage
This evergreen species is the most tender agapanthus; foliage and crowns are killed by hard frost. Overwinter pots in a frost-free greenhouse or porch in cool climates.
Poor flowering
Caused by shade, over-potting, or too much nitrogen. Provide full sun, keep roots slightly restricted, and feed with high-potash fertiliser.
Crown and root rot
Cold, waterlogged compost rots the evergreen crown. Use a gritty, free-draining mix and water sparingly in winter while keeping the plant from drying out fully.
Grey mould on overwintered foliage
Stale, damp glasshouse air causes botrytis on retained leaves. Ventilate well, remove dead foliage, and avoid wetting the leaves.
Prevent agapanthus africanus 'albus' problems before they start
Most agapanthus africanus 'albus' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for agapanthus africanus 'albus' in general rather than its problems? Read the full agapanthus africanus 'albus' care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Agapanthus africanus 'Albus' problems — FAQ
Why is my agapanthus africanus 'albus' frost damage?
This evergreen species is the most tender agapanthus; foliage and crowns are killed by hard frost. Overwinter pots in a frost-free greenhouse or porch in cool climates.
Why is my agapanthus africanus 'albus' poor flowering?
Caused by shade, over-potting, or too much nitrogen. Provide full sun, keep roots slightly restricted, and feed with high-potash fertiliser.
Why is my agapanthus africanus 'albus' crown and root rot?
Cold, waterlogged compost rots the evergreen crown. Use a gritty, free-draining mix and water sparingly in winter while keeping the plant from drying out fully.
Why is my agapanthus africanus 'albus' grey mould on overwintered foliage?
Stale, damp glasshouse air causes botrytis on retained leaves. Ventilate well, remove dead foliage, and avoid wetting the leaves.