About
Nerine bowdenii, Bowden lily, is a bulbous perennial to 50 cm with strap-shaped, rich-green leaves preceded in autumn by erect stems bearing umbels of lily-like, pink flowers 6�8 cm across with wavy, recurved segments. One of the most beautiful and reliable of all autumn-flowering bulbs for a sunny, sheltered, well-drained border or wall base.
About the genus
Nerine are summer-dormant, perennial bulbs producing erect, leafless stems each bearing a terminal umbel of funnel-shaped, often glistening, pink or red flowers in autumn, with strap-shaped or linear leaves appearing after the flowers. Ornamental bulbs for sunny, well-drained positions.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectWest-facing, East-facing, South-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeBulbs
HabitTufted
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Mediterranean climate plants, Gravel garden
Native toSouth Africa
ToxicityOrnamental bulbs - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Ornamental bulbs - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
CultivationPlant in early spring in a moderately fertile, well-drained soil. Protect in colder areas with a deep dry mulch over winter. See also Nerine cultivation
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed, sown with moderate heat as soon as ripe or by division after flowering
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free