Amarines & Nerines

Amarines  are a showy cross between Amaryllis belladonna and Nerine bowdeni, Amarines inherit the graceful appearance of nerines but boast larger, sturdier stems, Broader leaves and more lily-like blossoms. Blooming in the late summer to autumn, Amarines can be grown in the same way as nerines – grow them in a sunny, sheltered and well drained spot, or in a pot. When planting the bulbs, make sure that the tips are above the soil.
 

Nerines (a.k.a. Guernsey Lily – Spider Lily) bloom in early autumn when most flowers are fading. In cold climates, plant them in spring for autumn blooms and bring them indoors for winter. Nerines produce clusters of pink, white, or red flowers on leafless stems. Their narrow, floppy leaves appear in early summer and die back in autumn before flowering. Each bulb typically produces a 30-60cm flower stalk with 4-10 buds.

In warmer areas, plant bulbs directly in the garden in a sunny, well-drained spot, 10cm apart, with the neck of the bulb exposed. In colder areas, grow nerines in pots to provide the bright sunlight and well-drained soil they need, making it easier to bring them indoors for winter. Space the bulbs about 75cm apart in containers with drainage holes.

Water sparingly, avoiding overwatering during dormancy. Fertilise with low nitrogen fertiliser only during active growth. Remove dead leaves in late summer and spent flowers after blooming. If storing bulbs indoors for winter, keep them dry and above 7°C. Nerines prefer being crowded and bloom best when left undisturbed, so divide only when necessary.