Guernsey Lily
Common Names: Guernsey Lily, Nerine Lily
Botanical names: Nerine, (near-REEN)
Availability: Year round
Vase life: 10 to 14 days
Storage temperatures: 50 - 70 degrees Fahrenheit
Ethylene Sensitive: No
Description: A cluster of 6 to 12 lily-like blossoms at the top of a leafless stem 12 to 18 inches long.
Color: Pink, reds and white
Botanical facts: This flower is named after a Greek sea nymph.
Design notes: Wonderful vertical form. Popular in contemporary design and in mixed hand-tie bouquets. Blossoms are used in corsage and wedding work.
Purchasing hints: Purchase when one or two of the blossoms are just ready to open and are showing color.
Conditioning: Cut stems under water with a sharp knife. Hydrate in a solution of warm water and commercial floral preservative / floral food for two hours before storage or usage.
Additional notes: Pick off withered blossoms to encourage new buds to open. Storage at temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit will make the flowers blue.