Nemesia strumosa aka Cape Jewels

Taxonomy

Nemesia strumosa, also known as Cape jewels or pouch nemesia, is a bushy annual plant native to the southwestern Cape Provinces of South Africa. It is well-suited for various garden applications such as beds, borders, rock gardens, and containers. This plant's cultivars, many of which are hybrids with Nemesia versicolor, offer a wide range of vibrant flower colors, including bicolored varieties. Growing as a cool-weather annual, N. strumosa can be planted in USDA zones 2 through 10. The plant reaches a height of about 30cm and features lance-shaped leaves with toothed margins. Its racemes bear 2-lipped flowers that are approximately 2cm across, available in shades of red, purple, pink, blue, yellow, or white, often displaying bicolored patterns. Pouch Nemesia, resembling an orchid, adds a splash of color to gardens and is hardy in zones 2 to 10.

Common names

Cape Jewels, Cape Snapdragon, Nemesia

How to care for Cape Jewels

Difficulty

Cape Jewels is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

Water

Cape Jewels should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Cape Jewels loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Cape Jewels requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Cape Jewels will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Toxicity

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

Growth-pattern

New growth will sprout from the top of the plant as it grows upwards.


More info:
Wikipedia