Nerine sarniensis

RHS Plant Profile
Guernsey lily
Guernsey lily RHS

Other common names

narcissus of Japan, Jersey lily, spider lily

Synonyms

Nerine corusca 'Major'
Nerine sarniensis var. curvifolia
Nerine sarniensis var. sarniensis
Nerine sarniensis var. corusca

Conservatory Greenhouse Bulbs

A bulbous perennial with stout stems bearing in early autumn umbels of long-stamened, red or orange-red flowers to 4cm across, the narrow tepals recurved and wavy-edged. Narrowly strap-shaped leaves appear after the flowers

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.1-0.5 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
5–10 years
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
0.1-0.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H2

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Amaryllidaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming
Potentially harmful
Ornamental bulbs - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Ornamental bulbs - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Genus
Nerine are summer-dormant, perennial bulbs with erect leafless stems each bearing a terminal umbel of funnel-shaped flowers in autumn, and strap-shaped or linear leaves appearing after the flowers
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
South Africa (Cape)

How to Grow

Cultivation

Plant in early spring in a moderately fertile, well-drained soil. Protect in colder areas with a deep dry mulch over winter. See also nerine cultivation

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown with moderate heat as soon as ripe or by division after flowering

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Gravel garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Mediterranean climate plants
  • Wall side borders
  • Cut flowers
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs

Diseases

Generally disease-free