The African lily

Agapanthus is the flower of summer and its tall-stemmed blue or white heads grace gardens across Australia. A perennial from South Africa, it’s a survivor, from its thick, fleshy roots to its luxuriant, strappy green leaves.

In a time of climate change when bushfires are a real threat in many areas, these plants are a top choice to grow as fire retardants. Although they will burn, they can help slow a fire’s progress and recover quickly after a blaze.

To use them as a firebreak, plant them thickly without organic mulch. Use them as a border to mown grass or mass plant under deciduous trees.

The thick roots also bind soil and help to reduce erosion on an embankment. The flowers attract birds and are longlasting. They can be picked