This bulbous perennial adds late-season colour to the Systematic Beds.
Belonging to the daffodil family, Amaryllidaceae, the genus Nerine contains approximately 30 species of bulbous perennials from South Africa, Lesotho, Botswana and Swaziland. All species have spherical umbels of numerous funnel-shaped, zygomorphic flowers, with six reflexed tepals and six stamens, and glossy, strap-like foliage. The flower heads of Nerine bowdenii carry a minimum of seven flowers and can reach 30 cm in height. Originating from South Africa, it is one of the more widely grown species, enjoying a warm, sunny situation, and surviving in temperatures as low as -15°C if given good drainage.