Nerine bowdenii

Nerines are South African bulbs, widely planted in warmer regions for their late display of rich pink flowers. They work well in a mixed herbaceous border and make an excellent cut flower. They bear striking sprays of lily-like flowers with recurved petals on erect leafless stems. Strap shaped foliage develops in spring and grows into clumps over time.

Most nerines are tender greenhouse bulbs, but Nerine bowdenii is the nearest to being hardy, and well worth planting outdoors in a warm sunny border backed by the shelter of a wall. For best results grow Nerine bowdenii in well-drained soil in full sun, ideally sheltered by a south-or west-facing wall. Divide congested clumps in spring.