Nerine 'Kashmir' is an elegant autumn-flowering bulb producing clusters of pure white, lily-like flowers on tall, slender stems. The narrow, gently waved petals curl and twist as they open, creating the delicate, almost sparkling appearance for which Nerines are prized.

Flowering during October and November, 'Kashmir' provides valuable colour very late in the gardening season. Growing to approximately 50-60cm tall, it makes an unusual feature in sunny borders and containers, although this newer hybrid is best given protection from severe winter weather in much of the UK.

• Botanical name: Nerine 'Kashmir'
• Common name: Nerine
• Plant type: Bulbous perennial
• Flower colour: White
• Flowering time: October-November
• Height: Approximately 50-60cm
• Spread: Approximately 20-30cm
• Position: Full sun
• Soil: Very well-drained, gritty soil or compost
• Hardiness: Best protected from severe winter cold and wet
• Ideal for: Containers, conservatories, cold greenhouses and sheltered sunny borders

About Nerine 'Kashmir'

'Kashmir' is a particularly refined Nerine, distinguished by its white flowers rather than the bright pink shades associated with many familiar varieties. Each upright flower stem carries a loose head of several blooms, with narrow petals that curve backwards and develop softly ruffled edges.

The flowers appear on largely bare stems, giving them an exceptionally clean and elegant appearance. Their late season also makes 'Kashmir' especially useful, bringing fresh flowers to the garden when many summer plants have already finished.

Late Autumn Flowers

Nerine 'Kashmir' normally flowers during October and November. The blooms emerge on stems around 50-60cm tall and can remain attractive for several weeks in favourable conditions.

The pure white flowers look particularly effective against darker evergreen foliage or planted where low autumn sunlight can catch the petals. They can also make excellent cut flowers for late-season arrangements.

Where to Grow Nerine 'Kashmir'

Choose the warmest, sunniest and best-drained position available. Nerines flower best when their bulbs receive plenty of summer warmth, while excellent drainage is essential during winter.

A south-facing wall, raised bed or gravel garden can provide suitable outdoor conditions in sheltered gardens. In colder, wetter or more exposed areas, growing 'Kashmir' in a container is the safer option because the pot can be moved into a conservatory or cold greenhouse for winter.

How to Plant Nerine Bulbs

Nerine bulbs should be planted unusually shallowly. Position each bulb so that the neck and upper part remain exposed above the soil or compost. Burying the bulb deeply can reduce flowering and increase the risk of rot.

When planting into containers, use a very free-draining mixture containing plenty of horticultural grit. Several bulbs can be grouped together, but avoid excessively large pots because Nerines often flower well when relatively snug.

Height and Spread

Nerine 'Kashmir' reaches approximately 50-60cm tall in flower and develops a spread of around 20-30cm. Established bulbs may gradually produce offsets and form broader clumps over time.

Winter Protection

'Kashmir' is one of the newer Nerine hybrids and should not be treated as reliably hardy in all UK gardens. The combination of frost and prolonged winter wet can be particularly damaging.

Container-grown bulbs can be moved into a cold greenhouse or conservatory before severe weather. Keep them bright and well ventilated, and avoid excessive watering during the colder months.

After Flowering

Allow the foliage to develop and remain in place naturally after flowering. Healthy leaves are essential for replenishing the bulb and building up reserves for the following year's flowers.

Once established, avoid repeatedly lifting or disturbing the bulbs. Nerines generally perform best when allowed to settle into the same position for several seasons.

Why Grow Nerine 'Kashmir'?

• Elegant pure white flowers
• Flowers very late in October and November
• Distinctive curled and ruffled petals
• Graceful stems reaching 50-60cm
• Spread of approximately 20-30cm
• Excellent for containers
• Ideal for conservatories and cold greenhouses
• Can be tried outdoors in a warm, sheltered position
• Useful late-season cut flower

Frequently Asked Questions

When does Nerine 'Kashmir' flower?
It normally flowers during October and November, providing colour very late in the garden season.

How tall does Nerine 'Kashmir' grow?
The flowering stems reach approximately 50-60cm tall.

What is the spread of Nerine 'Kashmir'?
An established plant typically spreads around 20-30cm, with clumps gradually enlarging as bulbs produce offsets.

Is Nerine 'Kashmir' hardy in the UK?
It is best regarded as needing some winter protection, particularly from severe frost and prolonged wet. Container growing makes protection much easier.

How deeply should Nerine bulbs be planted?
Plant them shallowly, leaving the neck and upper portion of the bulb exposed above soil level.

Can Nerine 'Kashmir' be grown in pots?
Yes. Containers are an excellent option. Use a very gritty, free-draining compost and place the pot in full sun.

Where should I keep container-grown bulbs in winter?
A bright cold greenhouse or conservatory provides useful protection while still keeping the bulbs relatively cool.

With its pure white autumn flowers, elegant ruffled petals and exceptionally late flowering season, Nerine 'Kashmir' is a beautiful choice for a sunny container, conservatory or carefully chosen sheltered position outdoors.