Cape Jewels Nemesia 'Fleurie Blue'

👤 Non-toxic to humans

🐾 Non-toxic to pets

🌸 Blooming

🍪 Not edible

‍🌱 Easy-care

ABOUT

Nemesia 'Fleurie Blue' boasts a vibrant display of flowers that make it a standout in any garden setting. The most arresting feature of this plant is its blossoms, which show off a delightful shade of deep blue, often with a delicate whitish edge to create a bi-color effect. Each flower is comprised of two prominent lips; the upper lip is usually divided into four lobes, while the lower lip is broader and visibly more rounded. The petals are velvety to the touch, with a texture that enhances the rich coloring of the blooms. These flowers are borne in clusters that create a bold visual impact, lending an almost whimsical quality akin to a cloud of butterflies. The foliage of 'Fleurie Blue' provides a lush backdrop to the floral display with its green leaves that are finely textured, often lance-shaped, and possibly toothed depending on the precise cultivar. The plant presents itself as a generous spread of color when in full bloom, inviting pollinators to partake in its nectar. Its overall form is bushy and well-branched, which supports a profusion of flowers that traditionally grace gardens during the warmer months of the year. The overall appearance of Nemesia 'Fleurie Blue' is one of charming vibrancy, a plant that would be as much at home in a casual cottage garden as in a meticulously designed border or container arrangement.

Plant Info

Care

Common Problems

About this plant

Names
- Family
  Scrophulariaceae
- Synonyms
  Cape Jewels, Nemesia
- Common names
  Nemesia 'Fleurie Blue'.
Toxicity
- To humans
  The common name for Nemesia 'Fleurie Blue' is Nemesia. Information on the toxicity of this particular cultivar 'Fleurie Blue' to humans is not well documented. Generally, Nemesia species are not known for being toxic to humans. However, it is always advisable to refrain from ingesting any plant material that is not known to be edible, as it could potentially cause mild stomach upset or an allergic reaction in some individuals. If Nemesia was to be poisonous, symptoms could potentially include gastrointestinal discomfort, such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, but specific symptoms related to this plant are not well established due to a lack of significant evidence regarding its toxicity.
- To pets
  The common name for Nemesia 'Fleurie Blue' is Nemesia. There is limited information on the toxicity of Nemesia specifically to pets, including dogs and cats. Generally, Nemesia species are not widely recognized as toxic to pets. However, as with any non-food plant, ingestion by pets should be avoided as it may cause mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea. Without specific evidence of toxicity for 'Fleurie Blue', it is advisable to keep an eye on your pet and consult with a veterinarian if any unusual signs or symptoms occur after ingestion.
Characteristics
- Life cycle
  Annuals
- Foliage type
  Evergreen
- Color of leaves
  Green
- Flower color
  Blue
- 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 'Fleurie Blue' showcases striking blue flowers that add a pop of color to gardens and landscapes.
- Drought tolerance: Once established, these plants can tolerate periods of dry conditions, making them suitable for xeriscaping.
- Ease of care: This variety of Nemesia is known for being low maintenance, requiring minimal upkeep beyond the basics.
- Prolific flowering: Nemesia 'Fleurie Blue' typically produces abundant flowers from late spring to fall, ensuring a long season of visual interest.
- Versatility: Can be used in a variety of garden settings, including borders, containers, and as bedding plants.
- Cold hardiness: They are generally able to withstand cooler temperatures, making them suitable for a range of climates.
- Attracts pollinators: The flowers attract bees and butterflies, promoting biodiversity and healthy gardens.
- Compact growth: This plant tends to grow in a compact form, making it ideal for small gardens or spaces where size control is important.
- Fast growth: Nemesia 'Fleurie Blue' has a fast growth rate, which means quicker coverage and rapid establishment in the garden.
- Vibrant foliage: The foliage of the plant offers a lush background that complements the vibrant blue flowers.
Medical Properties
This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses
- Photography Prop: With its vibrant blue flowers, Nemesia can be used as a beautiful backdrop or focal point in garden photography.
- Educational Tool: Botany educators can use Nemesia to teach students about plant anatomy and the process of pollination.
- Art and Craft: The flowers can be pressed and used in creating bookmarks, greeting cards, or other paper crafts.
- Insect Attraction: Nemesia can be strategically planted to attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, aiding in the pollination of nearby crops and plants.
- Color Dye: The petals could potentially be boiled to create a natural blue dye for fabrics or art projects.
- Scented Gardens: Due to its fragrant flowers, Nemesia can contribute to a garden's aroma, making it an ideal plant for sensory gardens.
- Culinary Garnish: Although not widely known for culinary use, the petals of Nemesia could be used as an edible garnish to add color to salads or desserts.
- Wedding Decor: The delicate flowers of Nemesia can be used in wedding bouquets or as decorations for outdoor events, contributing to a rustic or garden theme.
- Seasonal Displays: Nemesia's vibrant blues can be used in seasonal spring or summer displays in home or commercial settings for ornamental purposes.
- Container Gardening: Nemesia works well in pots and containers, providing versatility for balcony gardens or spaces with limited ground planting options.

Interesting Facts

Feng Shui
The Nemesia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign Compitability
The Nemesia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism
- Friendship - Nemesia can symbolize camaraderie and trust in relationships, reflecting the warm connection between friends.
- Resilience - With its ability to bloom in various conditions, the Nemesia represents the strength to persevere and thrive in adversity.
- Attraction - The vibrant colors of 'Fleurie Blue' Nemesia signify a strong attraction, whether in friendship or romance.
- Success - The blossoming of Nemesia can symbolize success and the achievement of one's endeavors, much like the flowering of one's efforts.
- Joy - The bright and cheerful appearance of the Nemesia plant brings to mind happiness and can represent a joyful spirit.

💧

Every 1-2 days

Water

☀️

2500 - 10000 Lux

Light

💦️

Humidity

🪴

Every year

Repotting

🌱️

Spring-Early Summer

Propogation

✂️️

As needed

Pruning

Water
Cape Jewels should be watered regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy, as overwatering can lead to root rot. It's best to water them early in the morning to allow any excess moisture on the foliage to evaporate throughout the day. During active growth in spring and summer, watering may be required once or twice a week, depending on the weather. A rough guideline is to provide about 1-2 gallons per plant each week, adjusting for rainfall and temperature. During winter, reduce watering to prevent the soil from becoming too wet, especially if the plant is not actively growing.
Light
Cape Jewels thrive in full sun to partial shade. They prefer a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day for optimal flowering. If grown indoors, place them near a south-facing window for the most light. In very hot climates, they can benefit from some afternoon shade to protect them from the intense heat.
Temperature
Cape Jewels prefer cooler temperatures and can typically survive in temperatures ranging from 40 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate a light frost but prolonged exposure to temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit may damage or kill the plant. The ideal temperature range for Cape Jewels is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
Pruning
Cape Jewels benefit from regular deadheading to remove faded flowers and encourage further blooming. Pruning can also help maintain a compact, bushy growth habit. Trim lightly throughout the growing season as needed. The best time for more substantial pruning is late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins.
Cleaning
As needed
Soil
For Nemesia, also known as 'Cape Jewels,' the best soil mix is well-draining with a peat-based compost. It should be light and have good aeration to prevent waterlogging. The pH should range between 5.5 and 7.5, slightly acidic to neutral.
Repotting
Cape Jewels should be repotted annually, usually in the spring. They have a rapid growth rate and benefit from fresh soil to provide nutrients and encourage blooming.
Humidity & Misting
Cape Jewels prefer moderate humidity levels, similar to their native coastal habitats. Ideal humidity ranges from 40% to 60% for optimal growth and flower production.
Suitable locations
- Indoor
  Place Cape Jewels in bright, indirect light with good air circulation.
- Outdoor
  Plant in a sunny spot with some afternoon shade and shelter.
- Hardiness zone
  9-11 USDA
Life cycle
The Nemesia 'Fleurie Blue', commonly known as Cape Jewels or Nemesia, begins its life cycle when its seeds are sown in warm, well-drained soil, usually in early spring after the last frost. Germination occurs within 7 to 14 days, where seedlings emerge and begin to establish a basic root system. As the seedlings mature, they develop true leaves and continue to grow into compact, bushy plants, reaching flowering maturity within a couple of months. The plant then enters the flowering stage, producing delicate blue flowers that attract pollinators, continuing to bloom throughout the spring and into the summer. Once pollinated, the flowers will develop into small capsules containing seeds, completing the reproductive cycle. Finally, as temperatures drop towards fall, the Nemesia 'Fleurie Blue' will begin to die back, though in milder climates it may behave as a short-lived perennial, with some plants surviving to grow again the following season.
Propogation
- Propogation time
  Spring-Early Summer
- Nemesia 'Fleurie Blue', commonly known as Nemesia, is propagated primarily through seed. The best time for sowing Nemesia seeds is in late winter to early spring to allow the seedlings to develop in time for the flowering season. To propagate Nemesia, seeds are generally scattered lightly onto the surface of a well-draining seed starting mix and lightly pressed into the soil, but not covered, as they require light to germinate. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, and the seeds typically germinate within 10 to 20 days at a temperature around 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 21 degrees Celsius). Seedlings can then be thinned and eventually transplanted outside after any risk of frost has passed and they've grown strong enough to handle outdoor conditions.