The Pretty Prink Flower That Will Fill Your Garden With Electric Color In November

Looking to add vibrant color to your autumnal garden with a unique plant that flowers in November? Guernsey lily (Nerine bowdenii) are one eye-catching perennial that should be on your radar. Also known as Cape flower, these bright-pink blossoms are elegant and late-blooming, flowering for up to four to six weeks in late summer and fall, and then shedding their leaves in the winter. They're one of those late-blooming flowers that will keep hummingbirds coming to your garden. They're also way less run-of-the-mill than common fall flowers.

Native to South Africa, nerine bowdenii are suitable for USDA Hardiness Zones 8 through 10. These popular summer bulbs are naturally resistant to deer and rabbits and able to tolerate dry spells, making them a great option for gardeners who live in hot, dry climates. In colder regions, they can also be grown in pots or containers for easy relocation. (Pro tip: Their stunning blooms make great cut flowers for indoor floral arrangements.) With the right care tips and tricks, you'll have everything you need to know to plant Guernsey lily successfully.

Early spring is the best time of year to plant Guernsey lily. Whether you're growing them in the ground or containers, it's vital to use well-draining soil. Place each bulb a few inches apart, and position it so that the soil only covers the bulb about halfway. You don't have to stress out about overcrowding them. Guernsey lilies actually do well when packed closely together.

Unlike other fall-blooming flowers that thrive in shady areas, Guernsey lilies do best in full sun. They can tolerate partial shade, but the more light, the better. Somewhere that offers shelter from rain or heavy winds is ideal. Fertilize them once or twice during their growing season, and be sure to water your lilies regularly and generously — that is, until they reach their dormant season in the winter. At that point, watering is no longer necessary. If frost is in the forecast in your area, you can move your container-grown flowers somewhere indoors, like a garage or shed, or use dry mulch as a protective shield in your garden during the winter. That's really all there is to it! To maximize November blooms in your garden, consider growing Guernsey lilies alongside another fall-blooming flower that likes similar conditions, such as limelight hydrangeas (Hydrangea paniculata 'Limelight') or African lily (Agapanthus spp.).