Description
What is Nerine ‘Pink Jewel’?
Nerine ‘Pink Jewel’ is a hardy, bulbous perennial from South Africa that thrives in cool, temperate, arid, and semi-arid climates. This resilient variety brings a vibrant splash of pink to autumn gardens, emerging after its summer dormancy with tall flower stalks featuring 5 to 10 delicate, funnel-shaped blooms in a striking pink hue. Its glossy, strap-like leaves follow the flowers and persist through winter, adding further interest to the garden.
In addition to its beauty, Nerine ‘Pink Jewel’ attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies, making it a great choice for encouraging wildlife in your garden.
Nerine ‘Pink Jewel’ is perfect for garden beds, borders, and containers. Its bright pink blooms are most striking in clumps and flower best when slightly crowded. Left undisturbed, it naturalises beautifully, producing vibrant, long-lasting blooms that also make excellent cut flowers, lasting up to three weeks.
Ideal Growing Conditions
Nerine ‘Pink Jewel’ thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Plant bulbs with their necks just above the soil surface and avoid disturbing them once established, as this can affect flowering. Slight crowding enhances blooming, making it ideal for both pots and containers. Though ‘Pink Jewel’ is frost-tolerant once established, it benefits from extra protection in areas prone to harsh frosts.
Planting Guide
Planting Time: Plant Nerine ‘Pink Jewel’ bulbs in summer (November to February) to establish them before autumn blooming.
Garden Beds: Choose a sunny, well-drained spot. A great place to plant Nerine ‘Pink Jewel’ is up against a south-facing wall, as the extra warmth and frost protection in colder months will help them thrive. Space the bulbs 10-20 cm apart, ensuring their necks remain just above the soil surface.
Containers: Use pots at least 20 cm deep and wide. Nerine ‘Pink Jewel’ thrives when slightly crowded, so space bulbs 5-10 cm apart. Enrich the soil with compost or well-rotted manure for drainage and nutrients, keeping the necks of the bulbs just above the soil surface.
Aftercare for Nerine ‘Pink Jewel’
Once established, Nerine ‘Pink Jewel’ requires little maintenance:
- Watering: Water lightly during the flowering and foliage periods to keep the soil moist, but reduce watering as the foliage begins to die back. Stop watering completely during the plant’s summer dormancy.
- Fertilising: Apply balanced fertiliser in early autumn to support growth and blooms. Potted plants may need extra feeding if kept in the same container for several seasons.
- Mulching: In areas with hard frosts, apply mulch around the base to protect bulbs. Mulching also regulates soil moisture in warmer climates, providing extra insulation during cold winters.
- Deadheading: Remove spent flowers to encourage further blooming and keep plants tidy.
Dividing Nerine ‘Pink Jewel’
‘Pink Jewel’ thrives when undisturbed, but may need division if overcrowded:
- When to Divide: Spring or early summer after foliage has died back.
- How to Divide: Only divide Nerine ‘Pink Jewel’ if necessary, as disturbance can affect their flowering. Gently lift bulbs, separate by hand, and replant in well-drained soil. Slight crowding encourages better flowering.
Companion Planting
Nerine ‘Pink Jewel’ pairs well with low-growing perennials that won’t compete for nutrients or overshadow it. Avoid large, aggressive plants. Ideal companions die back in summer, letting Nerine ‘Pink Jewel’ stand out in autumn.
Pests and Diseases
Nerine ‘Pink Jewel’ is resistant to most pests but can be affected by slugs and snails. Use deterrents if needed to protect young shoots. Ensure good airflow to prevent grey mould (botrytis) in damp conditions. Avoid waterlogged soils.
Toxicity
Nerine ‘Pink Jewel’ contains lycorine, toxic if ingested by humans or pets. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Keep bulbs away from children and pets, and wear gloves if you have sensitive skin. Seek medical attention if ingested.
CAUTION: Harmful if eaten.
Supplied as dormant bulbs.