Plant nerine bulbs directly outside during spring, as soon as possible after receiving them. They may remain dormant well into summer, so allow them time to settle.
Out of season
Deluxe
Nerine
'Mr John'
Bowden lily
Autumn can be a tricky time for the flower garden as summer bulbs and perennials give their last gasp and stop flowering in preparation for the winter. But nerines like 'Mr John' are there to liven up your garden and flower arrangements. Most nerines (also known as Bowden lily) are candy pink, but Nerine 'Mr John' is an improved variety with deep magenta blooms that really stand out from the crowd!
Try this very special plant in containers or in a sunny spot with well-drained soil and remember to plant your bulbs in groups for maximum wow-factor. Try combining Nerine companion 'Mr John' with white Nerine bowdenii 'Alba' for stand-out contrast, or simply enjoy it on its own. If you live in a cold area, lift and store your Nerine 'Mr John' bulbs during dormancy, but in milder areas, you can simply leave your bulbs in place all year round.
Quantity
Plant profile
Plant calendar
Select a warm, sheltered spot in full sun, where the bulbs can enjoy plenty of summer warmth. Nerines grow well in borders and containers.
Plant in fertile, free-draining soil. For containers, use peat-free multipurpose compost mixed with grit, and make sure excess water can drain away easily.
Plant the bulbs shallowly with their necks visible above the soil. Space them 10–15cm apart, preferably in groups for a generous autumn display.
Water after planting, then keep the soil lightly moist without waterlogging it. Once established, water during prolonged dry spells and allow the foliage to die back naturally.
Nerines flower best once settled, so avoid moving or dividing them unnecessarily. Hardy varieties can remain outside over winter, with a dry mulch offering extra protection in colder or exposed gardens.
- Botanical name
- Nerine bowdenii 'Companion Mr John'
- Flower colour
- Pink
- Bulb size
- 12/+
- Established height
- 50-70cm
- Established spread
- 10-20cm
- Growing skill
- Easy to grow
- Habit
- Upright
- Hardiness
- Fully hardy
- Leaf colour
- Green
- Mouse resistant
- No
- Plant spacing
- 25 bulbs per m2
- Pollinator friendly
- Yes
- Position
- Sheltered
- Rabbit resistant
- No
- Scented
- No
- Soil acidity
- Any
- Soil moisture
- Free draining
- Soil type
-
Loam
Sandy
Stony
Multipurpose compost - Suitable for
-
Pots
Large containers
Borders
Gravel gardens
Coastal gardens
Cottage gardens
Low maintenance gardens - Sunlight
- Full sun
- Toxicity
-
Harmful if eaten
Skin/eyes irritant - Years to establish
- 1-2 years
Perfect for pots
Pollinator-friendly
Thrives in full sun
Perennial
Fully hardy
Packed in paper
Naturalising
Low maintenance
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Expert care from
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Our horticulturalists prepare every bulb and plant with the utmost care. From selection to packing, each one receives expert attention before beginning its journey to your garden.
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Our care team of horticultural experts is on hand to support you choose and garden with confidence.
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Chosen to thrive
Every bulb and plant is sourced, selected and prepared with an expert eye for their quality and garden performance.
