Nerine humilis | |
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Scientific classification | |
Kingdom: | Plantae |
Clade: | Tracheophytes |
Clade: | Angiosperms |
Clade: | Monocots |
Order: | Asparagales |
Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
Subfamily: | Amaryllidoideae |
Genus: | Nerine |
Species: | N. humilis
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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]