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
New
Nerine
'Like a Virgin'
Bowden lily
Pure white flowers have a special kind of magic in the autumn garden, and Nerine 'Like a Virgin' captures it beautifully. Its elegant flower heads unfold into clusters of luminous, snow-white blooms, each with slender, gently rippled petals that curl gracefully backwards to reveal delicate stamens. The flowers have a wonderfully crisp, almost porcelain-like appearance, with an airy, starburst shape that catches the soft autumn sunlight. Rising on tall, leafless stems, they seem to float effortlessly above neighbouring plants, creating an enchanting display when much of the garden is winding down. Nerine bowdenii 'Like a Virgin' looks particularly lovely against deep green foliage, purple asters and copper-coloured ornamental grasses, where its brilliant white flowers provide a refreshing contrast.
Elegant yet surprisingly resilient, Nerine 'Like a Virgin' is a beautiful choice for sheltered borders, sunny courtyards and patio containers. Growing to approximately 50–70cm tall, this bulbous perennial produces its graceful flowers during September and October, occasionally continuing into November. Plant Nerine 'Like a Virgin' in spring, choosing a warm, sunny position with excellent drainage and leaving the neck of the bulb just above the soil surface in milder gardens. Once established, the bulbs prefer to remain undisturbed, gradually multiplying to form increasingly generous displays. In colder or wetter UK gardens, provide winter protection or grow them in containers that can be moved under cover. The long-lasting flowers are also excellent for cutting, bringing an understated elegance to autumn arrangements. Beautifully simple yet full of character, Nerine bowdenii 'Like a Virgin' is a delightful finale to the flowering season.
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 'Like a Virgin'
- Flower colour
- White
- 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
RHS Recommended
Perennial
Fully hardy
Packed in paper
Naturalising
Low maintenance
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