Wavy Nerine
nerine undulata
Also known as: ["Kaffir Lily","Corn Lily"]
Overview
A bulbous plant native to South Africa, known for its wavy-edged, strap-like leaves and vibrant, spider-like flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus: | Nerine |
| Botanical Name: | Nerine undulata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sheltered, sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent bulb rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter; cactus or bulb-specific mix works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed after flowering; remove dead leaves in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; only remove dead or damaged parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, indirect light for 4–6 hours daily. Can tolerate full sun in cooler climates but prefers partial shade in hot regions.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant monthly for even growth; use sheer curtains in hot climates; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks during active growth, reduce to monthly in dormancy
Allow soil to dry out between waterings; water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogging during dormancy.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix designed for bulbs or succulents; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers cool temperatures, ideally 50–65°F (10–18°C) during growth; tolerates mild frost but not prolonged cold.
Keep away from drafty windows; maintain consistent temperatures; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth, none in dormancy
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in summer.
Propagation
Methods
Division of offsets or bulbils; occasionally by seed.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate offsets from the mother bulb.
- Plant in a small pot with well-draining soil.
- Water lightly until established.
Best Time: After flowering, when the plant is entering its growth phase.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand.
Hormone
Not typically required for bulb division.
Timeline
Offsets may take 1–2 years to mature; seed propagation can take 2–3 years to flower.
Tools Needed
Sharp, sterile knife; small pots; well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Plant offsets at the same depth as the mother bulb; keep evenly moist but not waterlogged; provide warmth for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip flower stalks at the base after blooming; trim dead leaves with clean cuts.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing spent flower stalks and dead foliage to encourage bulb development.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Remove spent flowers; cut dead leaves; sanitize tools; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late winter or early spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Use a pot only slightly larger than the bulb cluster; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Gently lift bulbs; remove old soil; replant at the same depth in fresh, well-draining mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot only when bulbs become crowded or every 3–4 years; overcrowding can actually encourage flowering.
Checklist
Check for crowded bulbs; use fresh soil; maintain planting depth; ensure drainage.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution. Water until it drains from the bottom, then discard excess to prevent root rot. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during the dormant summer months, then increase frequency in fall as flowering begins. Reduce watering again after flowering until the next fall cycle.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf yellowing or browning; stunted growth; bud drop; soft or mushy stems.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can halt growth and cause root damage, especially if combined with wet soil.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; reduce watering in cold conditions; use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can scorch leaves, cause wilting, and disrupt flowering cycles.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging; use reflective mulch.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; use diluted fertilizer; apply during fall; avoid summer.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (fall). Avoid fertilizing during dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest parts of Nerine undulata. The alkaloids present can cause discomfort, though severe toxicity is rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Nerine undulata can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of alkaloids. The effects are typically self-limiting but may require veterinary attention if symptoms persist.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicNerine undulata contains alkaloids that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and irritation upon ingestion. The physiological impact is generally limited to localized discomfort and is not considered life-threatening in typical exposure scenarios.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Nerine undulata?
A: Water sparingly during the dormant season and moderately during active growth, ensuring the soil is well-drained.
Q: Does Nerine undulata require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade, with at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Q: When does Nerine undulata bloom?
A: It typically blooms in late summer to early autumn, producing its distinctive flowers on tall stalks.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks during activ |
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