How to Grow Nerine 'Steven Foster'
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Nerine 'Steven Foster'
Nerine bowdenii 'Steven Foster'
flowerNerine 'Steven Foster' is a cultivar of Guernsey lily featuring vibrant pink flowers with distinctive reflexed petals and prominent stamens. This elegant bulbous perennial blooms in late summer to early fall, producing tall stems topped with spherical clusters of star-shaped flowers. It is a dramatic ornamental suitable for borders, containers, and cut flower arrangements.
When should you plant Nerine 'Steven Foster' in your zone?
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Example Nerine 'Steven Foster' timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Nerine 'Steven Foster'
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Nerine 'Steven Foster' blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 8-10; can survive zone 7b with protection
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Get my Nerine 'Steven Foster' timeline →Growth Stages
Dormancy/Summer Rest
June-August (8-10 weeks)Bulb rests underground during summer months with minimal foliage activity and reduced metabolic processes.
Reduce watering significantly; allow soil to dry out. Protect from excessive heat and moisture. Bulbs are actively storing energy for fall blooming.
Growth Initiation
August-September (3-4 weeks)Emerging leaves and shoots appear as temperatures cool in late summer; buds begin to form at the base.
Gradually increase watering as growth resumes. Ensure full sun exposure to support flower bud development. Monitor for slug damage on emerging foliage.
Flowering
September-October (4-6 weeks)Tall stems (12-24 inches) topped with spherical umbels of pink star-shaped flowers with reflexed petals and prominent red stamens.
Provide staking for tall varieties in windy locations. Water consistently but don't overwater. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage longer blooming; leave stems if collecting seeds.
Seed Development & Foliage Growth
October-May (6-7 months)Long, strap-like green leaves develop fully after flowering; seed pods enlarge if pollinated flowers were retained.
Continue regular watering and feeding with balanced fertilizer to support leaf and seed development. Allow foliage to remain until it naturally dies back in late spring.
Spring Decline & Dormancy Onset
May-June (4-6 weeks)Foliage yellows and withers as the plant prepares for summer dormancy; bulb retreats underground.
Reduce watering as leaves fade. Do not remove foliage prematurely—allow natural die-back to return nutrients to the bulb. Stop fertilizing.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Hand-pick at dusk; set beer traps; apply copper tape or diatomaceous earth around planting area; encourage ground beetles
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Remove damaged bulbs; ensure bulbs are healthy at purchase; maintain good drainage to prevent fungal entry points; apply neem oil if infestation observed
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Increase humidity by misting foliage; spray with water to dislodge; apply sulfur or horticultural oil if severe; ensure adequate air circulation
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Improve air circulation; remove infected foliage; avoid overhead watering; apply fungicide (sulfur or copper) if conditions are wet and cool
Uses
Not for consumption
CulinaryNerine bulbs are toxic and not used in culinary applications. They contain toxic alkaloids and should never be ingested. [source]
Cut flowers and floral arrangements
HouseholdThe stunning pink star-shaped flowers are prized by florists for high-end cut flower arrangements, wedding bouquets, and decorative displays. The long vase life (2-3 weeks) makes them practical for home arrangements. [source]
Dried flowers
CraftNerine flowers dry beautifully and retain their color and form for dried arrangements, wreaths, and botanical crafts lasting several months. [source]
Garden ornament and landscape design
HouseholdThe dramatic late-season blooms provide structure and color to garden borders, containers, and mixed perennial beds when most other plants are fading. [source]
Pollinator attraction
WildlifeThe prominent stamens and nectar-rich flowers attract butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects during late summer and early fall when few other flowers are blooming. [source]
Harvest Tips
Cut flowers when the lower flowers in the umbel have opened but upper flowers are still budding, typically 2-3 flowers open. Cut stems in early morning using a sharp knife. Vase life is 2-3 weeks in cool water. Flowers can be dried for craft use by hanging upside-down in a warm, dark location.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Nerine bowdenii is native to South Africa and was named after the Nereid sea nymphs in Greek mythology, referencing the plant's elegant, water-like flower structure.
- 🌱 The 'Steven Foster' cultivar was named in honor of ethnobotanist Steven Foster and is prized for its larger, more vibrant pink flowers compared to the species.
- 🌱 Nerines are among the few bulbs that bloom in late summer and fall when most gardens are winding down, making them valuable for extending the flowering season well into autumn.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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