Nerine Sarniensis (Guernsey-Lily)

Temperature:
45-50 F

This tender bulb produces several brilliant spider-like blossoms atop a 1- to 2-foot spike which appears before foliage develops. Flowers are pink, crimson, or scarlet tinged with orange. They are not fussy as to soil, but require good drainage. Plant bulbs in summer, as many as 3 to a 5-inch pot, as root development is not extensive.

Keep fairly dry at first bulbs seems to prefer a rest period after growth starts in late August but give plenty of moisture during growth. Do not dry off until foliage yellows and matures in spring. Once established, roots do not ljke to be disturbed, so do not repot for several years; however, a top dressing of fresh soil in the fall is beneficial.

While foliage is maturing, nerines like a monthly feeding with a complete fertilizer.

Recommended:

N. Bowdenii has bright rose-pink flowers.