Overview

Nerine bowdenii 'Alba' is a bulbous perennial in the genus Nerine, part of the Amaryllidaceae family. Nerine bowdenii 'Alba' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained soils and neutral and slightly acidic pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include borders, containers and rock gardens. It is native to South Africa.

About

Nerine bowdenii is a species of flowering plant in the family Amaryllidaceae. It is an herbaceous bulbous perennial, growing to 45 cm (18 in) tall by 8 cm (3 in), with strap-shaped leaves and large umbels of lily-like pink flowers in late summer and autumn.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0Nerine bowdenii

About the genus

Nerine is a genus of flowering plants belonging to the family Amaryllidaceae, subfamily Amaryllidoideae. They are bulbous perennials, some evergreen, associated with rocky and arid habitats. They bear spherical umbels of lily-like flowers in shades from white through pink to crimson.

Wikipedia contributors, "Nerine", CC BY-SA 4.0Nerine

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Nerine

Sunlight
full sun, partial shade
Soil type
well-drained
Soil pH
neutral, slightly acidic
Soil moisture
moderate
Aspect
south-facing
Exposure
sheltered
UK hardiness
H4

Plant details

Nerine bowdenii 'Alba' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
bulbous perennial
Suggested uses
borders, containers, rock gardens
Native to
South Africa

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Nerine bowdenii 'Alba'

Cultivation
Plant bulbs in late spring after risk of frost; prefers well-drained soil; water moderately during growing season; allow to dry out in dormancy
Pruning
Remove spent flower stems; cut back foliage after it yellows
Propagation
division of bulbs, seed

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Nerine bowdenii 'Alba'?

Plant bulbs in late spring after risk of frost; prefers well-drained soil; water moderately during growing season; allow to dry out in dormancy.

Where is the best place to plant Nerine bowdenii 'Alba'?

Nerine bowdenii 'Alba' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Nerine bowdenii 'Alba' need?

Nerine bowdenii 'Alba' grows best in well-drained soil. It prefers neutral and slightly acidic soil. Aim for soil that stays moderate.

How do I prune Nerine bowdenii 'Alba'?

Remove spent flower stems; cut back foliage after it yellows.

Is Nerine bowdenii 'Alba' hardy in the UK?

Nerine bowdenii 'Alba' has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.

How do I propagate Nerine bowdenii 'Alba'?

Division of bulbs, seed.

More in the Nerine genus

Browse all Nerine