- Carithers Flowers Main Website- Wikipedia: Nerine Lily

Nerine Lily

Native to South Africa

The Nerine Lily is a feathery bloom that also goes by the names, Guernsey Lily and Spider Lily. A native of South Africa, it is a member of the amaryllis family. Pink is the predominant color for these flowers, but they can also be found in white or orange. The blossoms are often used in Oriental-style arrangements and will last up to two weeks in a vase. Nerine Lilies are considered to be perennials. This means that, although they can be found year round as cut flowers, they bloom most often in the late fall to early winter. The flowers do not appear until the second season on some varieties.

Named after the daughter of Nereus who was called Nerine, these lilies are sometimes found as part of wedding bouquets and corsages. The plant is drought tolerant and prefers a hotter climate. Don’t plant Nerine Lilies in tropical climates, however, because they do not like a very humid climate.

Growing Recommendations - Nerine Lily

Plant Nerine lilies in the spring time although the bulbs will tolerate the winter season. While they can handle being in the ground all winter, they tend to be somewhat sensitive to chilly conditions. If storing the bulbs, make sure they are not done so at temperatures below 30 degrees F. Bulbs can be stored dry in the air for only a few days before planting. They do best if not disturbed once they are in the ground and also seem to like being a bit crowded. They can be planted from seed, but seeds should be started indoors and before the last frost of the season. Nerines like moderate watering and should not be overwatered. Use a slow release fertilizer with lilies and fertilize in the spring with a phosphorus-rich formula. Never plant lily bulbs where standing water is found as this hurts them, so make sure there is adequate drainage. Mulching your lilies before winter will also help ensure that the roots continue to grow longer. This strategy will also protect the plants through the colder months.

Photos of Nerine Lilys

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