This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.

• Position: full sun
• Soil: fertile, moist, well-drained soil (or John Innes no. 3 compost for containers)
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: July to August
• Hardiness: frost hardy (may need protection in winter)
  
  The intense, dark blue colouring of the trumpet-shaped flowers makes this African lily a stunning addition to sunny borders or patio pots. Becoming drought tolerant once established, it's also one of the hardier deciduous forms. Use it to line a pathway, or plant it en-masse for a blast of mid- to late summer colour.
  
  
• Garden care: Keep well-watered during the growing season, applying a balanced liquid fertiliser each month from spring until the plant flowers. Towards the end of September ease back on the watering and feeding of plants in containers to allow the foliage to toughen up. In cold, exposed areas protect the crown of the plant with a deep, dry winter mulch.