Guernsey Lily Nerine bowdenii 'Ostara'
ABOUT
The Nerine bowdenii 'Ostara', commonly known as the Guernsey lily, is a striking flowering plant known for its bold and vibrant blooms. The plant features a cluster of slender, strap-shaped leaves that create a lush, grassy backdrop. From amidst these leaves emerge flower stems topped with an umbrella-like cluster of trumpet-shaped flowers. The 'Ostara' variety is celebrated for its rich, pink blossoms that boast ruffled edges and a delicate shimmer, giving the flowers a lustrous appearance. Each individual flower consists of six curving petals, which unfurl from a narrow base into a broader, fluted form. The petals often exhibit a slight ombre effect, with the color intensifying toward each petal's tip. Inside the blossom, the flower's stamens protrude prominently, tipped with contrasting anthers that add to the plant’s ornamental charm. The overall impression of the Guernsey lily 'Ostara' is one of exotic elegance, with its showy flowers providing a burst of color that can enliven any garden setting. Its appearance is reminiscent of a firework display, with the flowers' vivacious hues and distinctive shapes making them a standout feature in the autumn landscape.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae.
Synonyms
Bowden Cornish Lily, Cape Flower, Guernsey Lily, Japanese Spider Lily.
Common names
Nerine bowdenii 'Ostara'.
ToxicityTo humans
Nerine is generally considered to be of low toxicity to humans. However, as with many plants, it can potentially cause mild stomach upset if ingested. While serious poisoning is rare, it's advisable to avoid consuming any part of the plant to prevent any possible discomfort or adverse reactions.
To pets
Nerine is similarly of low toxicity to pets, such as cats and dogs. Ingestion might lead to mild gastrointestinal symptoms, including vomiting or diarrhea. As with humans, it is best to discourage pets from chewing or ingesting any part of the plant to prevent these mild symptoms.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Nerine bowdenii 'Ostara', commonly known as Nerine, produces vibrant pink flowers that enhance the visual appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Seasonal Interest: Nerine blooms in the autumn, providing color and interest in the garden when many other plants have finished flowering.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, Nerine is relatively drought-tolerant, making it suitable for gardens in drier climates or for gardeners seeking water-wise plants.
- Low Maintenance: This plant requires minimal care once it is established, making it a good choice for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers of the Nerine are attractive to pollinators such as bees, which is beneficial for the surrounding environment and plant biodiversity.
- Cut Flower Use: The long-lasting and showy blooms of Nerine make them excellent choices for cut flower arrangements, providing indoor decoration.
- Perennial Growth: As a perennial, Nerine bowdenii 'Ostara' will come back year after year, offering a long-term addition to gardens.
- Container Gardening: Nerine can be successfully grown in pots or containers, making it a versatile choice for those with limited garden space.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Nerine bowdenii flowers can be used in floral arrangements, adding a pop of color with their pink hues and unique shape; they provide an exotic touch to bouquets and centerpieces.
- The bulbs of Nerine bowdenii can be used in botanical education to demonstrate how certain plant species store energy and survive adverse conditions.
- Nerine bowdenii's striking appearance makes it a suitable plant for use in photography and painting, serving as an inspiring subject for artists and photographers.
- The plant can be used in garden design classes as an example of how to create seasonal interest in gardens, with its late blooming nature.
- Dried Nerine bowdenii flowers can be incorporated into potpourri mixtures for a natural and decorative home fragrance option.
- Garden competitions may use Nerine bowdenii as a specimen plant to be grown and judged for form, flowering, and overall health.
- Nerine bowdenii can be planted in memory gardens as a way to remember loved ones, with their bright blossoms symbolizing celebration of life.
- The plant can be used as an educational tool in schools to teach children about plant reproduction and life cycles, with its easily observable seed pods after flowering.
- Its resilience and low water requirements make Nerine bowdenii a good example in discussions about sustainable gardening and xeriscaping practices.
- As a subject for horticultural science, Nerine bowdenii can be used to study the effects of climate and soil conditions on the growth and flowering of bulbs.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Nerine is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Nerine is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Nerine bowdenii 'Ostara', commonly known as the Guernsey Lily, often blooms vigorously even after harsh conditions, symbolizing the ability to endure and recover from adversity.
- Surprise and Beauty: The Guernsey Lily's sudden appearance in the autumn with its vibrant, delicate flowers symbolizes unexpected beauty and the pleasant surprises life can bring.
- New Beginnings: Blooming in the fall when most other plants are fading, the Guernsey Lily is seen as a symbol of new starts and renewal.
WaterThe Guernsey Lily should be watered sparingly during its growing season, from spring to late summer, as it prefers well-drained soil and does not tolerate waterlogged conditions. Provide a light watering, just enough to moisten the soil, approximately once a week, or when the top inch of soil feels dry. Reduce watering after the leaves begin to yellow and die back, signaling the end of its active growth period. During its dormant period, in fall and winter, water very infrequently, just enough to prevent the soil from completely drying out. Typically, this could mean watering with approximately a few ounces every couple of weeks, adjusting based on the aridity of your environment and the moisture retention of your soil.
LightThe Guernsey Lily thrives in full sun to partial shade. It should be placed in a spot that receives at least a few hours of direct sunlight daily, but can also benefit from some afternoon shade in exceptionally hot climates. Ideally, the spot should offer morning sunlight with protection from harsh midday and afternoon sun, especially in southern regions where the sun is more intense.
TemperatureThe Guernsey Lily performs best in temperatures between 50°F and 75°F, which are its ideal growing conditions. It can tolerate a drop in temperature to as low as 40°F, but should not be exposed to frost. During the active growing season, temperatures should be maintained within this range. The bulbs can endure a dormant period with colder temperatures but should not be subject to prolonged freezing conditions.
PruningThe Guernsey Lily generally does not require extensive pruning. You should remove spent flower stems after the blooms fade to encourage healthy bulb development. Pruning is best done immediately after flowering. Additionally, any yellowing or dead foliage can be trimmed back at the end of the growing season, usually in late summer or autumn, to maintain a tidy appearance and prevent potential disease.
CleaningAs needed
SoilNerine bowdenii 'Ostara', commonly known as Guernsey Lily, thrives in well-draining soil mixed with sand or grit to ensure proper drainage. A peat-based potting mix can be beneficial. Maintain a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0 for optimal growth.
RepottingGuernsey Lily should be repotted every 3-5 years or when the bulbs have filled the pot. It's essential not to over-pot as they flower better when somewhat root-bound.
Humidity & MistingGuernsey Lily prefers moderate humidity levels but is adaptable to a range of household humidity conditions. Avoid overly humid atmospheres which may promote rot.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Guernsey Lily in bright light and avoid overwatering.
Outdoor
Grow Guernsey Lily in full sun, well-drained soil, sheltered from wind.
Hardiness zone
7-10 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of the Nerine bowdenii 'Ostara', commonly known as the Ostara Nerine, begins with seed germination, which typically occurs in a warm, well-drained soil environment. The seedlings develop into bulbous plants, with the bulbs serving as storage organs that sustain the plant through dormant periods. Each growing season, foliage emerges from the bulbs, consisting of strap-like leaves. After the leaves mature, flower stalks arise, bearing clusters of trumpet-shaped, pink flowers, usually in late summer or autumn. Following pollination, the flowers produce seed capsules if conditions allow, and once the seeds are ripe, they are dispersed to start new plants. The plant enters a period of dormancy during the colder months, with the bulbs lying dormant underground until the next growth cycle begins.
PropogationPropogation time
Late spring
The most popular method of propagating the Guernsey Lily, commonly known as Nerine bowdenii 'Ostara', is by division of its bulbs. The best time for this is after the foliage has died back, usually in late summer or early fall. To propagate, carefully lift the clump of bulbs from the soil and gently separate them, taking care not to damage the bulbs. Each offset that has a portion of the base plate can potentially grow into a new plant. Replant the bulbs immediately at a depth of around 3 to 4 inches (approximately 7.5 to 10 centimeters), spacing them about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) apart to allow sufficient room for growth. Make sure the neck of the bulb is just above the soil surface and water them well to establish. It may take a few years for the new plants to flower, but once established, they can provide a striking display.
