Nerine bowdenii
Nerine bowdenii
The hardiest nerine, producing elegant umbels of pink lily-like flowers with wavy-edged petals from September to November. Flowers best when congested and baked in summer heat against a south-facing wall. One of the finest autumn-flowering bulbs for UK gardens. The crystalline petals sparkle in autumn sunshine.
Where to plant
Best aspect
Border position
When to plant and expect flowers
Plant
Flowers
How to grow nerine bowdenii
Plant with the neck of the bulb at soil level against a south-facing wall. Needs a hot dry position and baking summer heat. Do not disturb once established — flowers best when congested. Feed with tomato fertiliser in spring. Mulch in cold areas over winter.
Soil requirements
Soil type
sand, loam
Moisture
well drained
pH
neutral
Aftercare
Allow foliage to die back naturally after flowering. Remove spent flower heads to prevent self-seeding.
Propagation
- Offsets in autumn
- Seed
Wildlife value
Toxicity
Mildly toxic. Contains lycorine causing nausea if ingested.
Common problems
- Needs warm sheltered position
- May not flower in cold wet summers
- Bulb rot in wet soil
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