Guernsey Lily
nerine sarniensis
Also known as: ["Guernsey Lily","Nerine bowdenii"]
Overview
A bulbous plant native to South Africa, known for its striking, spider-like flowers that bloom in autumn.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus: | Nerine |
| Botanical Name: | Nerine sarniensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a warm, sheltered spot or container in a sunny patio
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–25°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 added organic matter; cactus or bulb-specific potting mix works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed after flowering; remove dead leaves year-round.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; only remove dead or damaged parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates bright indirect light indoors.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching; provide shade during intense midday sun in summer; adjust light exposure based on indoor vs. outdoor placement.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to light shade
Rotate plant for even growth; avoid direct afternoon sun in hot climates; provide dappled shade in summer.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks during active growth, reduce in dormancy
Allow soil to dry out between waterings; water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged conditions.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool temperatures (50–65°F or 10–18°C) during dormancy; tolerates mild warmth (up to 75°F or 24°C) during active growth.
Keep away from drafts; maintain cool conditions in summer dormancy; protect from frost in winter.
Fertilizing
monthly during active growth (spring to early fall), none in winter
Fertilize sparingly; apply after watering to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing in summer.
Propagation
Methods
Bulb division or seed propagation.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide bulbs carefully, ensuring each has roots.
- Plant at the same depth as the parent.
- Water sparingly until established.
Best Time: After flowering in late fall or early winter for bulb division; seeds can be sown in spring.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light for seeds; bulbs prefer cool, dry conditions after division.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for bulb division; seedlings prefer a mix of peat and sand.
Hormone
Not necessary for bulb division; optional for seeds to encourage germination.
Timeline
Bulbs may flower within 1–2 years; seeds take 3–5 years to mature and flower.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, clean pots, well-draining soil, rooting hormone (optional).
Quick Tips
Divide bulbs only when necessary; keep seedlings consistently moist; be patient with seed propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip flower stalks at the base after blooming; trim dead leaves carefully to avoid damaging the bulb.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required; focus on removing spent flower stalks and dead foliage to maintain tidiness and encourage reblooming.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Check for dead foliage; sterilize tools; prune carefully to avoid bulb damage.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late summer or early fall, after dormancy but before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Use a pot only slightly larger than the current one (1–2 inches wider).
Method
Gently remove the plant; loosen tangled roots; place in a pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water sparingly until established.
Suggestions
Repot only when bulbs become crowded or every 3–4 years; overcrowding can actually encourage blooming.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure good drainage; avoid overwatering post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting the foliage. Water until it drains from the bottom, then allow the soil to dry before watering again.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during the dormant summer months, then increase watering in fall as flower stalks emerge. Reduce watering again after blooming in winter.
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 in excessive heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause root damage and inhibit flowering; prolonged cold may lead to plant death.
Solution: Protect from frost; provide a sheltered location; use mulch to insulate roots; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water deeply but avoid waterlogging; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer correctly; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (fall and spring); avoid fertilizing during dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicNerine sarniensis is toxic to cats, particularly the bulb and roots, which contain substances that can induce severe gastrointestinal distress and other systemic reactions. Cats are sensitive to these compounds, and ingestion can be harmful.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe bulb and roots of Nerine sarniensis are toxic to dogs, containing compounds that can cause significant gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic effects. Ingestion can lead to severe discomfort and requires veterinary intervention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicNerine sarniensis contains toxic compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and irritation upon ingestion. The bulb and roots are the most toxic parts, containing alkaloids that affect the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When does Nerine sarniensis bloom?
A: It typically blooms in autumn, often from September to November.
Q: Is Nerine sarniensis toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How should Nerine sarniensis be watered?
A: Water sparingly during the dormant season and increase watering during active growth, ensuring the soil is well-drained.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to light shade |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks during activ |
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