Nerine, the birthday flower of October 13th

If you've been in Japan in September, no doubt you have heard about, even seen, red spider lilies. Red spider lilies are a type of Amaryllis, as is Nerine, pictured above. When I first saw Nerine I thought perhaps it was called Pink Spider lilies! But no. However, other than Nerine it is often called the Diamond Lily. I have also seen the name Guernsey Lily too, but reportedly that is a slightly different species.

In Japan, nerine bloom from October to be December, each bloom only lasting about 7 days. They bring a warm and welcome source of color on Autumn and Winter days.  However, they don't seem to be that common here, despite the popularity of spider lilies. It maybe that their bulbs are expensive as the flower is not native to Japan. However, nerines are perennial so once planted the reproduce each year. 

The Japanese Hanakotoba (language of flowers) for Nerine includes “Looking forward to the day we meet again”, “Patience” and “A sheltered young lady.” These meanings are said to be connected to the Nereids of Greek mythology, who lived beneath the water and were separated from the outside world. Nerine is the birthday flower of October 13th, 17th and November 25th.