Nerine bowdenii (Bowden lily, Guernsey lily or Jersey lily)
In deciding to leave the beds of our new garden alone for a year, it meant we were given surprises every season as we got to know the garden. The breathtaking Nerine bowdenii in October was a welcome sight. Little did we know that our new garden had a few of these dotted about. The burst of autumn colour on a dull fall day was beautiful. The nerines colours vary from soft pink to deep rose and white flowers. These long-lasting fall trumpet shaped blooms will never disappoint, and in addition it is an easy care plant needing very little attention.
Originally from southern Africa, most Nerines are frost shy and will need protection in colder weather. However, the hardy Nerine bowdenii is a bulbous perennial that can thrive in zones 8 – 10. Common names include Bowden lily, Guernsey lily and Jersey lily. This spectacular plant with vivid pink flowers is a must-have in your garden during the late season. Easy care, and in a sunny spot, the no-fuss Nerine bowdenii can also be planted in containers. The flowers are fragrant, long-lasting and make excellent cut flowers indoors. We are especially glad that they are deer resistant too.
Other recommended Nerines include ‘Mark Fenwick’ which is a taller variety with soft pink blossoms, and the ‘Pink Triumph’ which has deep rose pink flowers.
Nerine bowdenii At A Glance
Type: Blubs / Perennials
Location: Full Sun / Part Shade
Blooming Season: Late Summer / Autumn (Fall)
Height and spread: 30 – 60 cm (1 – 2 ft) x 7 – 15 cm (3″ – 6″)
When To Prune: Mid Winter (see winter maintenance tips below)
Zones: 8, 9, 10
Coldest Temperature Hardiness: -12°C (20°F)
How To Plant And Care For Nerine bowdenii (Bowden lily, Guernsey lily or Jersey lily)
If you are looking to add this plant to your Autumn colour garden collection, the Nerine bowdenii bulbs should be planted in early to mid-spring. It likes a sunny location, with free-draining soil. Some shelter against a south-facing wall benefit during any unexpected snow fall.
Allow your nerine to die back naturally in the winter. By mid-winter the stems and leaves should pull out easily and cleanly from the ground. It is an easy care winter maintenance task. If they is resistant, don’t be tempted to cut them yet. Leave the stems and leaves for another couple of weeks before trying again.
In early spring, apply a light dressing of rich organic mulch.
They do well undisturbed – a plus for busy gardeners. However, after a few years, your N. bowdenii may need to be lifted and divided if it gets too crowded.
Pests And Disease That Affect Nerines
Slugs and snails are the usual garden pests that may munch on your plant. Sprinkle some slug and snail bait early in the season to help with this issue if it arises. They are deer resistant. Otherwise they are generally trouble-free.
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