The Gardeners' ChronicleAugust 26, 1906
AGAPANTHUS UMBELLATUS MOOREANUS.
S. Arnott, Gorsethorn-by-Dumfries, N.B.
While the noble Agapanthus is hardy in southern gardens, it cannot be depended upon in more northern parts; besides, a smaller and neater plant is required for the ordinary a'pine garden, yet something distinct in character from the greater number of autumn flowers. Such may be found in the smallest variety of Agapanthus umbellatus, which is known as A. Mooreanus. It is quite hardy, it is a very desirable plant for the base of the rockgarden, and in such a position in my garden it is always acceptable at the present season. It grows about 18 inches high, and is suitable for even small rockeries. It may be described as a miniature form of the well-known "African Lily." It likes a good deal of moisture in its season of growth, which is afforded at the bottom of the rockery. The plant increases freely.
The Gardeners' ChronicleApril 20, 1907
The Agapanthus As A Hardy Plant.
S. Arnott, Dumfries
Agapanthus Mooreanus, according to botanists, is but a form of
A. umbellatus, but from a garden point of view it is quite
distinct, having narrower leaves, more slender stems, and smaller flowers.
It is also much hardier; I know of its flourishing as a hardy plant in
gardens well north, and even in exposed situations. In my former and
present gardens it is quite hardy and increases with much freedom, without
any protection, in a somewhat dryish soil. A. umbellatus, the type,
is, however, more tender, and it is not everywhere in Scotland that it
will prove hardy. In the south-west it is fairly hardy, and I was much
interested the other day in seeing how well it has survived in a most
trying winter in the garden of Captain Hope, R.N., at St. Mary's Isle,
Kirkcudbright. At St. Mary's Isle the Agapanthuses are planted rather
deeply at first, so that the frost has little effect until the plants
become established. The Agapanthus should be more largely planted and
cultivated as a hardy plant in the milder districts of these islands.