[4] It is native to the Kwa-Zulu Natal and Western Cape provinces of South Africa.

Local names include agapant, bloulelie, isicakathi and ubani.

[1] Most of the cultivated plants of the genus Agapanthus are hybrids or cultivars of this species.

The flowers are blue, purple or white and bloom from late spring to summer, followed by capsules filled with black seeds.

praecox, it has up to 20 poisonous, strap-like leaves per plant which are arching and are not leathery.

It tolerates drought once well installed, but watering is preferable in case of long dry periods.

Contrary to popular belief, this species can withstand wind, frost and cold up to −15 °C provided that the strains are protected for the first two years with mulching.

orientalis is highly regarded for being tough in sun and heat, long-flowering, and is a favourite for many councils in Australia for the landscaping of roads and other public areas which do not get watered.