Nerine Bowdenii

Description

Nerine Bowdenii, also known as Bowden Cornish Lily, is a bulbous perennial plant that belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family. It is native to South Africa, specifically in the Cape Province. This plant is prized for its stunning pink flowers that bloom in late summer or early autumn. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and grow in clusters atop tall, slender stems that can reach up to 60cm in height.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Nerine Bowdenii plant has long, strap-shaped leaves that are dark green and slightly twisted. The flowers are the main attraction, with their prominent pink color and trumpet-like shape. Each flower cluster contains up to 10 flowers that are about 5cm in diameter. The blooms have a sweet fragrance that adds to their appeal, and they can last for up to 4 weeks.

Care Guide

The Nerine Bowdenii plant is relatively easy to care for, but it does have some specific requirements:

Water

During the growing season, the plant should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist. However, during the dormant period, the bulb should be kept dry.

Fertilization

The plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Stop fertilizing during the dormant period.

Soil

The Nerine Bowdenii plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A slightly acidic soil pH of 6.0-6.5 is ideal.

Sunlight

The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It should be planted in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.

Hardiness Zones

The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-11. It can be grown in colder zones if the bulbs are lifted and stored indoors during the winter.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Nerine Bowdenii plant is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to the following:

Pests

• Snails and slugs
• Spider mites

Diseases

• Bulb rot
• Fungal leaf spot

Habitat

The Nerine Bowdenii plant is native to the Cape Province of South Africa, where it grows in rocky, well-draining soil. It prefers sunny locations and can tolerate periods of drought.

Question and Answer

1. How often should I water my Nerine Bowdenii plant?

The plant should be watered regularly during the growing season to keep the soil moist. However, during the dormant period, the bulb should be kept dry.

2. What is the ideal soil pH for Nerine Bowdenii?

The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic, with a pH of 6.0-6.5.

3. What pests and diseases should I watch out for?

The plant can be susceptible to bulb rot, fungal leaf spot, snails, slugs, and spider mites.

4. What is the hardiness zone for Nerine Bowdenii?

The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-11.

Related Plants

• Nerine sarniensis
• Nerine filamentosa
• Nerine undulata
• Nerine angulata

References

• “Nerine Bowdenii.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/23464/nerine-bowdenii/details
• “Nerine Bowdenii.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a691
• “Nerine Bowdenii.” Gardening Know How. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/nerine/nerine-bowdenii.htm