About Nerine humilis (Jacq.) Herb.
Nerine humilis, commonly called dwarf nerine, is a species of flowering plant. It belongs to the subfamily Amaryllidoideae of the amaryllis family, Amaryllidaceae, and is native to the Cape region of South Africa. This bulbous perennial grows up to 40 cm (16 in) tall and is polymorphic, meaning it shows significant natural variation. It produces narrow leaves that emerge at the same time as its flower umbels in autumn. Each umbel holds 1 to 12 slender, crenellated flowers that come in various shades of pink. Nerine humilis is a deciduous species that is dormant during summer, so its above-ground growth dies back and disappears for part of the summer. In its native habitat, the Fynbos of the Cape Floristic Region, this species often grows in large colonies and appears to thrive in response to the frequent fires that occur in the area. The Latin specific epithet humilis translates to "dwarf" or "low-growing", and plants tend to be more consistently dwarf in habit at the western end of their native range. This plant has been awarded the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. It cannot tolerate freezing temperatures, so it needs protection during winter. In cooler temperate climates, it grows best when planted in a pot, and overcrowding of bulbs within the pot actually improves its flowering.
