Guernsey lily (Nerine bowdenii)
Care, watering, light and tips for Guernsey lily on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Amaryllidaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Guernsey lily
Nerine bowdenii, also known as Nerine or Guernsey Lily, is a bulbous plant from the Amaryllidaceae family, cherished for its showy, trumpet-shaped pink flowers that emerge in late summer and autumn. Its elegant, bare flower stalks, often appearing before the leaves, make it ideal for garden borders, rockeries, or as a cut flower in autumnal arrangements. Its grace and vibrant color bring a touch of cheer when many other plants begin to fade.
Native range
South Africa
Care tips
It prefers a sunny exposure and well-drained soil; waterlogging is its main enemy. Water moderately during its growth and flowering period, drastically reducing watering once the leaves start to yellow and during its summer dormancy. A common mistake is planting it too deep; the bulb necks should be just at soil level or slightly exposed for optimal flowering. Protect the bulbs from intense cold in climates with harsh frosts.
How to save a dying Guernsey lily
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or soft leaves, drooping stems, no flowering after dormancy.
- First aid
- Check soil: if waterlogged, remove bulb and dry. If dry, water lightly.
- What kills it
- Overwatering during winter dormancy or summer. Also, not providing a dry period for flowering.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if the bulb isn't rotted. Remove damaged parts and repot in dry, light substrate.