About
Nerine humilis from Oudtshoorn Smee, South Africa is a dwarf bulbous perennial in the Amaryllidaceae that produces clusters of slender, crenellated pink flowers in autumn. It typically reaches about 0.4 m and bears narrow leaves that appear with the flower umbels. The species is summer-dormant, the above-ground growth dying back for a dry rest. Flowering for UK gardeners occurs from September to November.
About the genus
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.
Wikipedia contributors, "Nerine", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Nerine
In the garden
A Cape Province native, Nerine humilis from Oudtshoorn Smee, South Africa grows in colonies in the Fynbos and is adapted to a summer-dry cycle; leaves and flowers emerge together as the bulbs break dormancy in autumn. Plants form umbels of one to a dozen narrow, pink flowers held above the foliage and retain a compact stature to roughly 0.4 m. It is a summer-dormant, bulbous perennial so allow the top growth to die back and run a dry rest through the summer. The species does not tolerate being frozen and needs winter protection in colder sites; in cooler temperate areas it is better grown in a pot where bulbs can be moved or sheltered over winter. Overcrowding of bulbs in a pot is noted to improve flowering, so resist the instinct to space them far apart when potting up. Nerine humilis suits containers and sheltered positions where autumn colour is wanted; a pot also simplifies lifting for winter protection. Expect the principal display from September to November, and keep the bulbs relatively dry during their summer dormancy to mirror their native seasonal rhythm.
