Nerine gaberonensis

Description

Nerine gaberonensis

Nerine gaberonensis is a rare and lesser-known bulbous perennial in the Amaryllidaceae family, native to south eastern Botswana and adjoining parts of South Africa, where it grows among limestone cracks, granite outcrops and sandy soils. It reaches only around 20-25cm in height, with fine, grass-like (filiform) foliage that gives it a much daintier appearance than many of the larger, strap-leaved Nerines. Leafless flower stems carry an umbel of typical funnel-shaped nerine blooms, appearing before the foliage develops.

Unlike the more familiar Nerine bowdenii, this species is not hardy and cannot be relied upon to survive outdoors through a UK winter. It is best grown under glass or in a container that can be brought under cover, in full sun and gritty, free-draining compost. Plant bulbs with the neck just above soil level, water freely while in growth, and keep completely dry once the plant dies back into summer dormancy.