Plant Profile: Nerine

Nerine is a genus of flowering plants that falls under the Amaryllidaceae family and the Amaryllidoideae subfamily. These are bulbous perennials, some of which are evergreen, typically found in rocky and arid environments. They are vulnerable to damage when temperatures drop below 25 degrees Fahrenheit (2 degrees Celsius).

Most species feature strap-like leaves that can grow up to a foot in length. Depending on the variety, these leaves may wither before the blooming period in late summer or early autumn, or they may only appear after the flowers have bloomed. All nerines produce striking, broad flowers that resemble funnels or trumpets, which grow in clusters atop stems that lack leaves.

For optimal growth, nerines are best cultivated in containers. It is important to use a rich, well-draining soil mix and to plant the bulbs with their necks above the soil surface, burying only about half of each bulb, roughly 2 inches deep. Space the bulbs 6 to 8 inches apart. They can remain in the same pot for several years, as they tend to thrive when slightly crowded. Water generously while the plants are in leaf, but refrain from watering during their dormant phase. These plants flourish in full sun to partial shade.

It is worth noting that all nerines are particularly prone to infestations by mealybugs.