Growing Nerines
Nerine bulbs are autumn- to winter-flowering perennials from the Western Cape of South Africa, part of the Amaryllidaceae family. Often called Guernsey Lily or Cape Flower, they produce striking, wavy-petalled blooms in shades of pink, red, or white on tall, leafless stems.
Well-suited to warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters, Nerines thrive in full sun and free-draining soil. Plant in late summer and leave undisturbed—these hardy, low-maintenance bulbs reward patience with vibrant, long-lasting flowers, perfect for garden beds or cut arrangements.
We currently ship bulbs to Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland and South Australia, (due to quarantine restrictions we unfortunately currently cannot ship to Western Australia and Tasmania). Bulbs are shipped with extreme care, year round, with roots covered and leaves preserved when not in their dormancy period.
Potting instructions
Choose a pot
Select a pot with good drainage and at least 15–20 cm depth.
Prepare the soil
Use a free-draining mix—preferably a blend of quality potting mix and coarse sand or perlite to prevent waterlogging.
Position the bulbs
Place the bulbs with the neck just above the soil surface.
Planting time
Pot in late summer to early autumn for best results.
Watering
Lightly water after planting, then sparingly until growth appears. Overwatering can lead to rot. Once shoots emerge, water moderately.
Sunlight
Place the pot in a sunny, sheltered spot—Nerines thrive in full sun.
After flowering
Allow the foliage to die back naturally. Keep the bulbs in the pot, undisturbed, for several years to encourage better flowering over time.
Annual Cycle
Nerines are planted in late summer to early autumn, with flowers appearing in early to mid-autumn—often before the leaves. After blooming, foliage grows through winter and spring, helping the bulb store energy. As temperatures rise, the leaves naturally die back in late spring to early summer, marking the bulb’s dormant period. During this time, watering should be minimal. The cycle then repeats, with the bulbs ready to bloom again the following autumn.
Flowering
A perennial bulb, flower stems grow to approximately 45cm.
Nerine flowers are delicate yet striking, with slender, ruffle-like petals that curl slightly at the edges. Blooming in a variety of vibrant shades of pink, red, or white, they appear in elegant clusters atop tall, leafless stems—creating a bold, sculptural look in the garden or vase.
Our Story
At Nerine Bulb Co., we’re more than growers—we are passionate horticultural specialists committed to cultivating exceptional Nerine bulbs. Based in the picturesque Adelaide Hills of South Australia, our family-run enterprise began with a deep admiration for the resilience and elegance of this unique flowering bulb. Over the years, we have dedicated ourselves to developing our own exclusive varieties—meticulously bred, hand-selected, and carefully grown on our property. Each bulb reflects our values of quality, craftsmanship, and respect for nature.
Today, Nerine Bulb Co. proudly supplies premium Nerine bulbs to gardeners, collectors, and floral enthusiasts across Australia.
Whether you're planting for beauty, rarity, or resilience, our bulbs are grown to inspire!
