Nerine Bowdenii Alba

2-3 Litre pot

• Position: Full sun
• Soil: Well drained
• Growth Rate: Average
• Flowering Period: September – November
• Hardiness: H5
• Eventual Height: 0.1 – 0.5m
• Eventual Spread: 0 – 0.1m

Nerine Bowdenii Alba, also known as ‘Bowden Lily’  is a stunning erect perennial plant that produces eye-catching clusters of white lily-like flowers on tall, slender stems in late Summer and Autumn. This plant is native to South Africa and is highly prized by gardeners for its exotic, tropical appearance and long blooming period.

It is an excellent choice for adding colour and interest to garden borders, rock gardens, and containers. Its slender, strap-like foliage is an attractive shade of green, and its white flowers are a striking contrast to the foliage. This plant is also deer-resistant and drought-tolerant, making it an ideal choice for gardens with dry or challenging conditions.

In terms of care requirements, this Nerine prefers well-drained soil and full sun. Plant in the Autumn,  water deeply after planting and then sparingly throughout the growing season, as the plant is sensitive to overwatering. Fertilise once in the Spring with a balanced fertiliser.

Nerine Bowdenii also benefits from regular deadheading to promote a longer blooming period and a more prolific display of flowers. After the growing season, allow the foliage to die back naturally before removing it. In colder climates, the bulbs may need to be lifted and stored in a cool, dry place for the winter.

How to care for your Nerine Bowdenii Alba

• Soil and Sunlight: Prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate a range of soil types and pH levels, but good drainage is essential to prevent water logging and root rot.
• Watering: Is relatively drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering, but it benefits from deep watering once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry, especially during hot and dry weather. Avoid overwatering, as the bulbs can rot in soggy soil.
• Fertilisation: Does not require heavy fertilisation, but it benefits from a balanced fertiliser in early Spring to promote healthy growth. Avoid fertilising the bulbs after they have bloomed, as this can affect the next season’s blooming.
• Deadheading: Deadhead flowers regularly to promote a longer blooming period and a more prolific display of flowers. Cut the stem just above the base of the plant after the flowers have faded.
• Pruning: Does not require pruning, but you can remove the old foliage after it has died back naturally to keep the plant tidy and to prevent the spread of diseases.
• Winter Care: In colder climates, it may need to be lifted and stored in a cool, dry place for the Winter. Wait until the foliage has died back naturally before lifting the bulbs, and store them in a paper bag or a container with peat moss or vermiculite until it’s time to plant them again in the Autumn.

With these basic care tips, your Nerine Bowdenii Alba will thrive and produce stunning displays of flowers year after year. This plant is relatively low maintenance and a perfect choice for gardeners who want a burst of colour and interest in their gardens without too much fuss.