Dwarf nerine

Description

Nerine humilis, commonly known as dwarf nerine, is a species of flowering plant in the subfamily Amaryllidoideae of the family Amaryllidaceae, native to the Cape of South Africa. 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. 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. The Latin specific epithet humilis means “dwarf” or “low-growing”. 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. 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. Nerine is a genus of flowering plants belonging to the family Amaryllidaceae, subfamily Amaryllidoideae. They are bulbous perennials, some evergreen, associated with rocky and arid habitats. They bear spherical umbels of lily-like flowers in shades from white through pink to crimson. In the case of deciduous species, the flowers may appear on naked stems before the leaves develop. Native to South Africa, there are about 20–30 species in the genus. Though described as lilies, they are not significantly related to the true lilies (Liliaceae), but more closely resemble their relatives, Amaryllis and Lycoris. The genus was established by the Revd. William Herbert in 1820. Nerines have been widely cultivated and much hybridized worldwide, especially Nerine bowdenii, N. masoniorum, N. sarniensis and N. undulata (previously known as N. flexuosa). The hybrid cultivar 'Zeal Giant' has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. Most of the other 20 species are rarely cultivated and very little is known regarding their biology. Many species are threatened with extinction due to the loss or degradation of their habitat.