Nerine humilis

Nerine humilis
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Monocots
Order: Asparagales
Family: Amaryllidaceae
Subfamily: Amaryllidoideae
Genus: Nerine
Species:
N. humilis
Binomial name
Nerine humilis

Nerine humilis, commonly known as dwarf nerine,[3] is a species of flowering plant in the subfamily Amaryllidoideae of the family Amaryllidaceae, native to the Cape of South Africa.[4] Growing to 40 cm (16 in) tall, it is a variable (polymorphic) bulbous perennial with narrow leaves appearing at the same time as umbels of 1–12 slender, crenellated flowers in shades of pink, in autumn. It is a summer dormant deciduous species, meaning that the top growth disappears for a period during summer months.[3] Plants can be found in large colonies in their native habitat, the Fynbos of the Cape Floristic Region, appearing to respond well to the frequent fires in the area.[5]

The Latin specific epithet humilis means "dwarf" or "low-growing".[6] The plants are more likely to be dwarf in habit towards the western end of their range.

This plant has been given the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.[4][7] It does not tolerate being frozen, so requires some protection during the winter months. In cooler temperate zones it is best grown in a pot. Overcrowding of bulbs in a pot also improves flowering.[5]

References

  1. ^ "Nerine humilis". The Plant List. Retrieved 13 April 2018.
  2. ^ "Nerine humilis". International Plant Names Index. Retrieved 13 April 2018.
  3. ^ a b "Nerine humilis". SANBI PlantZAfrica.com. Retrieved 13 April 2018.
  4. ^ a b "RHS Plantfinder – Nerine humilis". Retrieved 13 April 2018.
  5. ^ a b "Nerine Species Two". The Pacific Bulb Society. Retrieved 13 April 2018.
  6. ^ Harrison, Lorraine (2012). RHS Latin for Gardeners. United Kingdom: Mitchell Beazley. ISBN 978-1845337315.
  7. ^ "AGM Plants – Ornamental" (PDF). Royal Horticultural Society. July 2017. p. 67. Retrieved 12 April 2018.