This perennial is semi-evergreen so it can lose some of its leaves in winter. In colder regions or more exposed gardens, it may lose them all, but 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)
  
  Stunning deep-purple, almost black tubular flowers forming a globe above stout green stems, ‘Black Jack’ is a wonderful perennial suited to bold plantings within borders or as a specimen in a container. Bred by South African plant breeders De Wet, these eye-catching African lilies are hardier than most and offer a longer flowering performance from mid-summer onwards.
  
  
• 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 cut back on the watering and feeding to allow the foliage to toughen up, and in cold, exposed areas protect the crown of the plant with a deep, dry winter mulch.