Forum Topic

  1. Agapanthus

  2. 7/12/2015 10:25:24 a.m. John Campbell
    (Non-member from Christchurch City)

    I am looking for a scientist expert in Agapanthus to respond to a question sent in to the Ask-A-Scientist programme.

    I have recently removed a heap of mature agapanthus clumps.
    I was surprised to find no animal life in, on or under the plants.
    I wondered if the plants are noxious to the usual insects etc that attack my garden vegetables?
    I soaked some leaves in water and tried the infusion on a green caterpillar but it appeared not to affect it in any way.
    If the plant is noxious to our garden pests, could the vital chemical be used as a natural control?
    I am aware that South Africa hosts an insect that feeds on agapanthus.

  3. 8/12/2015 4:21:45 p.m. Mike Thorsen

    Try Peter Heenan at Landcare in Christchurch. They're trying to breed a non-invasive Agapanthus.

    Agapanthus plays a great host to slugs, snails and spiders who love the damp dark bases. Not many (any?) insects appear to eat the leaves

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