Nemesia Nemesia 'Bordeaux'
ABOUT
Nemesia 'Bordeaux' is a captivating flowering plant known for its vibrant display and lush appearance. This particular variety boasts clusters of striking flowers, which exhibit a rich, deep wine-red color, reminiscent of the famous French wine region it's named after. The blossoms typically have a velvety texture and may show a slight gradient of color, with lighter or darker shades adding depth to the overall visual effect. Each petal is often adorned with delicate veins or a fine pattern that enhances its appearance, while the center of the flower sometimes has contrasting hues, which can draw the eye and add to the plant's ornamental value. The foliage is also attractive, generally presenting as a bright green that serves as a complementary backdrop to the intense floral coloration. The leaves are usually slender, slightly elongated, and may have a soft or slight gloss to their surface. The plant tends to have a bushy and well-branched growth habit, giving it a full and abundant look, with the flowers enveloping the top of the foliage, creating a rich tapestry of reds that can be quite a spectacle. Overall, Nemesia 'Bordeaux' is a showy plant that would catch the attention of any passerby with its opulent floral display and refreshing greenery, albeit without mentioning the specifics of its dimensions.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Plantaginaceae
Synonyms
Nemesia, Cape Jewels, Cape Snapdragon
Common names
Nemesia 'Bordeaux'.
ToxicityTo humans
Nemesia 'Bordeaux' is not renowned for being highly toxic to humans. However, as with many ornamental plants, it is not intended for ingestion. If consumed in large amounts, it may cause mild stomach upset or discomfort. Common symptoms of plant poisoning, which might also apply generally to non-toxic plant ingestion, could include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain. To avoid any potential health issues, it is advisable to keep Nemesia 'Bordeaux' out of reach of children and to not consume any part of the plant.
To pets
Nemesia 'Bordeaux', often simply referred to as Nemesia, is not commonly listed as a toxic plant to pets, which includes cats and dogs. However, ingesting any non-food plant can potentially lead to gastrointestinal upset in pets. Possible symptoms if a pet were to ingest Nemesia may include vomiting, diarrhea, or lack of appetite. If you suspect your pet has eaten a significant amount of Nemesia or is exhibiting these symptoms, it is best to consult with a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Semi-deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Bordeaux
Height
1 foot (30 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Blooms: Nemesia 'Bordeaux' produces richly colored flowers that enhance the aesthetics of gardens and landscapes.
- Long Flowering Season: Offers a prolonged display of blossoms from late spring through fall.
- Pollinator Friendly: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, supporting local ecosystems.
- Versatility in Use: Suitable for borders, containers, hanging baskets, and as ground cover.
- Ease of Care: Generally low-maintenance, requiring only basic gardening practices.
- Compact Growth: Ideal for small gardens or spaces due to its neat and compact growth habit.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it can withstand periods of low water, making it suitable for xeriscaping.
- Fragrance: Nemesia 'Bordeaux' can emit a pleasant scent, contributing to a sensory garden experience.
- Seasonal Interest: Adds vibrant color to the garden during the times of the year when other plants may not be in bloom.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Crafting Potpourri - Dried nemesia petals can be added to potpourri mixes for their pleasant fragrance and vibrant colors.
- Floral Baths - Petals from the nemesia can be sprinkled in bathwater to create an aromatic and visually appealing experience.
- Natural Dye - Nemesia flowers can be used to produce a natural dye for fabrics or paper, offering subtle hues.
- Garnishing - Edible nemesia flowers can be used as a decorative and edible garnish on salads and desserts.
- Scented Candles - The essential oils extracted from nemesia can be incorporated into homemade scented candles.
- Photography Subjects - The nemesia plant, with its attractive flowers, can serve as a beautiful subject for botanical photography.
- Artistic Inspiration - The unique colors and shape of nemesia flowers can inspire artists for paintings, drawings, or textile designs.
- Educational Use - Nemesia plants can be used in schools and educational programs to teach children about plant growth and horticulture.
- Decorative Pressed Flowers - Nemesia flowers can be pressed and used in craft projects such as making bookmarks, greeting cards, or framed botanical art.
- Sachets - Dried nemesia flowers can fill sachets used to scent drawers and closets naturally.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiNemesia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityNemesia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Delightful Charm: The Nemesia 'Bordeaux' with its vibrant colors and pleasant fragrance often represents a delightful charm and the joy that small and beautiful things bring into life.
- Friendship: Given as a gift, this plant may symbolize friendship and the sharing of happy moments, akin to sharing a fine wine from the Bordeaux region for which the plant is named.
- Success and Satisfaction: With its lush growth, the Nemesia 'Bordeaux' can symbolize the flourishing of success and the satisfaction that comes with achievements.
- Sensuality: The deep, wine-red color of the plant is often associated with sensuality and passion, reflecting deep feelings and emotions.
- Rarity and Distinction: As a cultivated variety, the 'Bordeaux' suggests rarity and distinction, symbolizing uniqueness and the value of being one-of-a-kind.
WaterNemesia 'Bordeaux', commonly known as Nemesia, should be watered regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, this typically means watering once every few days, depending on weather conditions and soil drainage; aim for about 1 inch of water per week. Use a watering can or a hose with a gentle spray to avoid disturbing the soil or the plant's delicate stems. During hot summer days, you may need to water more frequently, especially if the plant is in a container. Reduce watering in the cooler months to prevent root rot, but ensure the plant never completely dries out.
LightNemesia 'Bordeaux' prefers a spot where it will receive full to partial sunlight. The plant thrives best with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, but in hot climates, it benefits from some afternoon shade to protect it from the most intense sun. Ensure it's placed where it can receive ample morning light, which is typically gentler than the harsh afternoon sun.
TemperatureNemesia 'Bordeaux' enjoys moderate temperatures and grows best when the daytime temperature remains between 60 and 75°F. It can withstand a minimum temperature of about 30°F for short periods but is not frost-tolerant. Keep the plant protected from extreme heat and cold, as temperatures above 80°F or below freezing can stress the plant.
PruningPrune Nemesia 'Bordeaux' lightly throughout the growing season to encourage bushier growth and more flowers. Deadhead spent blooms regularly to promote continuous flowering. The best time for significant pruning is in the spring, just as new growth begins, to shape the plant and remove any dead or damaged stems from the winter.
CleaningAs needed
SoilNemesia, often known as 'Bordeaux', thrives best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal soil pH for this plant should be slightly acidic to neutral, in the range of 5.5 to 7.0. You can create an appropriate soil mix by combining two parts peat moss or coco coir, one part perlite or coarse sand, and one part compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and moisture retention.
RepottingThe Nemesia 'Bordeaux' typically doesn't require frequent repotting; it's often treated as an annual. If you keep it as a perennial in containers, consider repotting every 1-2 years or when the plant outgrows its current pot, usually in early spring.
Humidity & MistingNemesia 'Bordeaux' prefers moderate humidity levels but is adaptable to a range of humidity conditions. Ensure consistent moisture, but avoid overly humid environments that can promote fungal diseases.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Nemesia 'Bordeaux' in bright, indirect light and water regularly.
Outdoor
Plant Nemesia 'Bordeaux' in full sun to partial shade in fertile soil.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleNemesia 'Bordeaux', commonly known as Nemesia, begins its life cycle from seed germination, where the seed requires well-drained soil and warmth to sprout. The seedling stage follows, characterized by the development of the first true leaves after the initial cotyledons. The vegetative stage is next, during which the plant experiences significant growth and development of stems and foliage. Flowering ensues shortly after, marked by the beautiful red and wine-colored blooms that define the 'Bordeaux' variety. Pollination, if successful, allows for the formation of seeds that can disseminate to propagate the species. The plant may then go dormant or die off depending on climate conditions and whether it is grown as an annual or perennial.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating Nemesia 'Bordeaux' is through seed sowing. The ideal time to sow nemesia seeds is in late winter to early spring, aiming for them to bloom in the same growing season. Seeds are typically sprinkled onto the surface of a well-drained seed starting mix, as they require light to germinate, and are not covered with soil. They should be kept consistently moist and placed in a warm area, ideally around 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21 degrees Celsius). Germination usually occurs within 10 to 14 days. Once seedlings are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots and later moved to their final positions in the garden after the risk of frost has passed.
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