Guernsey Lily Nerine 'Stephanie'
ABOUT
The Nerine 'Stephanie' is an eye-catching perennial known for its unique and attractive blooms. The plant displays a cluster of lily-like flowers, which have a distinctive curly or wavy petal structure that adds to its ornamental appeal. These flowers come in a striking pink hue, ranging from soft pastel to a more intense magenta, which can add a vibrant splash of color to any garden setting. Each flower consists of narrow petals that often have a slight shimmer or glossy finish, catching the sunlight and creating an attractive sparkle. The foliage of the Nerine 'Stephanie' is also worth noting – it has slim, strap-like leaves that are deep green in color, providing a lush background for the vibrant floral display. These leaves typically form a neat, low-growing clump at the base of the plant. The contrast between the green foliage and the pink flowers creates a pleasing aesthetic that can enliven different landscapes. The flowers are held aloft on sturdy, upright stems that emerge from the clump of leaves, presenting the blooms in a way that seems as if they are reaching for the sun. This plant often blooms in late summer to autumn, providing a late-season burst of color when many other plants have finished flowering. The overall impression of the Nerine 'Stephanie' is one of elegance and charm, with its captivating flowers making it a standout in gardens and floral arrangements alike.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae
Synonyms
Guernsey Lily, Jersey Lily, Spider Lily, Diamond Lily
Common names
Nerine 'Stephanie'.
ToxicityTo humans
Nerine 'Stephanie', commonly referred to simply as Nerine, is not well-documented for causing significant toxicity in humans. However, as a general precaution with garden plants that lack specific information regarding human toxicity, it is advisable to avoid ingestion and contact with sap if you have sensitive skin. If a person were to ingest Nerine, it is wise to monitor for any symptoms of gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, and seek medical attention if symptoms occur or persist.
To pets
Nerine, the common name for Nerine 'Stephanie', may possess compounds that could be toxic to pets if ingested, as some closely related species of bulbs are known to contain alkaloids that can cause harm. If a pet were to ingest parts of a Nerine, symptoms of poisoning could potentially include vomiting, diarrhea, excessive salivation, lethargy, or more severe signs like tremors or seizures. If you suspect your pet has ingested Nerine or is showing symptoms of poisoning, it is essential to seek veterinary care immediately.
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
8
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Adds vibrant color and visual interest to gardens with its striking pink flowers.
- Autumn Blooming: Offers a splash of color when many other plants are fading, as it blooms in the fall.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it requires minimal water, making it suitable for xeriscaping or drought-prone areas.
- Low Maintenance: Requires little care beyond initial planting, making it ideal for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Perennial Growth: Returns each year, providing long-term decoration without the need for annual replanting.
- Bulb Propagation: Can be propagated from bulbs, allowing for easy multiplication and spread in the garden over time.
- Attracts Pollinators: Flowers attract bees and other pollinators, which are vital for the health of the ecosystem.
- Resistant to Pests: Generally resistant to many pests, reducing the need for chemical treatment.
- Versatile Planting Options: Suitable for borders, pots, or as cut flowers, offering various uses within the garden or home.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Nerine 'Stephanie', commonly known as Guernsey Lily, can be used as a natural dye source for textiles, providing a range of pink shades depending on the mordant used.
- The Guernsey Lily, with its striking appearance, can serve as an inspiration for artists and designers, often being depicted in botanical illustrations and fabric designs.
- The plant's sturdy stems and long-lasting flowers make it suitable for use in dried flower arrangements, maintaining color and form even after drying.
- An eco-friendly alternative to traditional decoration, the Guernsey Lily’s vibrant blooms can be used for festive table settings or event decorations.
- The plant's bulbs can be used in science education to demonstrate plant growth cycles and bulb propagation to students and gardening enthusiasts.
- Photographers can utilize the eye-catching Guernsey Lily as a subject for photo shoots, capturing the vibrancy and detail of the blooms.
- In plant symbolism and language of flowers, the Guernsey Lily can be used to communicate a message of beauty, resilience, and uniqueness in floral bouquets.
- The flowers can be incorporated into eco-friendly confetti, using dried petals for celebrations with less environmental impact.
- The Guernsey Lily can be used as a natural indicator plant to signal the onset of autumn in temperate gardens, as it flowers in the fall.
- The distinct shape and color of the Guernsey Lily can be used by hobbyists in the creation of realistic sugar flowers for cake decorating and culinary arts.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Nerine is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Nerine is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Surprise and Astonishment: The Nerine plant, also known as Guernsey Lily, often has a sudden bloom that surprises its onlookers, symbolizing unexpected beauty and wonders that appear without warning.
- Endurance and Longevity: Guernsey Lilies are known for their toughness and ability to withstand tough conditions, representing the ability to endure challenging times and emerge stronger.
- Good Fortune: In some cultures, Guernsey Lilies are believed to bring good luck, especially if they bloom around the time of a significant event or celebration.
WaterThe Guernsey lily should be watered sparingly during its growth season, typically receiving about 1 inch of water every week or two, depending on rainfall and soil drainage. It's essential not to over-water, as the bulbs can rot in excessively moist conditions. After the leaves die back in summer, reduce watering significantly and allow the soil to dry out completely before watering lightly every 3 to 4 weeks until the fall when the next growth cycle begins. Over the dormant winter period, watering should be minimal to prevent bulb rot.
LightGuernsey lilies thrive best in full sunlight to partial shade conditions. A spot that receives at least six hours of direct sun is ideal, although some afternoon shade can be beneficial in extremely hot climates. Place the plants in a location where they receive ample morning light with protection from the harsh, late afternoon sun if possible.
TemperatureGuernsey lilies prefer moderate temperatures and can survive in conditions that range from 50°F to 70°F, which are their ideal growing temperatures. The plants are hardy and can endure a minimum temperature of around 10°F, but they should be protected from frost to avoid damage to the bulb. The maximum temperature they can handle without stress is approximately 80°F.
PruningPrune the Guernsey lily by removing spent flower stalks to promote healthy growth for the next season. Deadheading is not typically necessary, as the plant does not set seed readily, but removing old foliage once it has yellowed and died back is beneficial. Pruning is best done after blooming, usually in late fall or early winter, but take care not to damage the bulb beneath the soil.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Guernsey Lily prefers well-draining soil with a mix of loam, sand, and peat to ensure adequate drainage and fertility. The ideal pH for this soil should range between 6.0 to 7.0, slightly acidic to neutral. A top dressing of compost is beneficial.
RepottingGuernsey Lilies should be repotted every 3-5 years or when they outgrow their pots. They prefer to be slightly pot-bound, so don't repot too often.
Humidity & MistingGuernsey Lilies thrive best in moderate humidity levels around 50-60%. Avoid placing them in excessively dry or overly humid conditions as both extremes can be detrimental.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade; protect from harsh weather.
Hardiness zone
7-10 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of the Nerine 'Stephanie', commonly known as the Guernsey Lily, starts with the planting of a bulb in well-draining soil, usually in late summer or early autumn. As temperatures warm in spring, leaves begin to grow, forming a foundation for photosynthesis to nourish the bulb. By late summer or early autumn, flower stalks emerge, and vibrant pink blooms appear, providing ornamental value. After flowering, the plant goes dormant, with the leaves dying back and the bulb resting underground. During dormancy, the bulb conserves energy and resources, preparing to repeat the cycle in the following growing season. Offsets may form alongside the parent bulb, eventually leading to clumps of plants that can be divided and replanted to propagate new bulbs.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
The Nerine 'Stephanie', commonly known as the Guernsey lily, is typically propagated by dividing its bulbs. The best time to carry out this procedure is when the plant is dormant, usually after the leaves have yellowed and died back, which often is in late summer. To propagate, carefully lift the clump of bulbs from the ground using a garden fork, ensuring minimal damage to the bulbs. Gently separate the offsets, which are the smaller bulbs attached to the base of the mother bulb, ensuring that each offset has roots attached. Replant the offsets at a depth of about 3 to 5 inches (8 to 13 cm), spaced around 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) apart, in well-drained soil with good sunlight exposure. Water them in gently to settle the soil around the roots and wait for them to establish and grow into new Guernsey lily plants.
