About Nerine sarniensis (L.) Herb.
Nerine sarniensis, commonly called Guernsey lily or Raquel, is a flowering plant species belonging to the Amaryllidaceae family. It is the designated type species of the genus Nerine. This plant is widely cultivated across temperate regions of the world, and has a notable association with the island of Guernsey—this connection is reflected in both its scientific and common names, since the specific epithet sarniensis translates to "from Guernsey". Despite this association, the species does not originate from Guernsey, and it is not a true lily; it is more closely related to Amaryllis and Sternbergia. It is native to the Northern and Western Cape Provinces of South Africa, but has become naturalized in France, Madeira, and the Azores. Nerine sarniensis is a bulbous perennial. It reaches 45 cm (18 in) in height and 8 cm (3 in) in width. It produces strap-shaped leaves, and bears umbels of scarlet, lily-like flowers that have prominent stamens tipped with purple anthers; flowering occurs in late summer and early autumn. When grown in cultivation in colder areas, N. sarniensis needs winter protection. Among florists, Nerine lily is recognized as one of the longest-lasting cut flowers available.
