Nemesia strumosa Compacta Tapestry Seed Mix - Cape Jewels

Nemesia strumosa compacta 'Tapestry', also called Cape Jewel, is an annual herbaceous plant of the Scrophulariaceae family. It grows in sandy South African soils. The leaves are lanceolate and shallow-toothed. This very bushy, well-branched plant produces branches supporting a myriad of big flowers that grow out of the axis of the leaves in rather large clusters, reminiscent of the shape of certain orchids. This variety reaches 25 cm in height in ideal conditions and will flower continuously from June to October.

The flowers of Nemesia strumosa 'Compacta Tapestry' are zygomorphic and bilabiate, presenting four protruding petals in the shape of a cap that form the upper lip. The lower lip is made up of two very swollen petals. The ensemble creates a big contrast with the dark green foliage. The mix offers a wide range of colours with dominantly blue and white tones where some yellow, burgundy or bicoloured flowers have slipped themselves in.

This exotic and picturesque beauty of a flowering species will shine brightest in flowerbed borders, rockeries and planters. It appreciates well-drained, preferably rich soils. Plant it in full sun or in partial shade. Reserve a spot for it near a passageway, on a patio or terrace, along the edges of paths or in any place where one can fully take advantage of its magnificent habit. Nemesia combine particularly well with Dorotheanthe difformis with which they share the same origins and the same beautiful ground cover qualities.

Careful, seeds are reserved for very experienced gardeners that are used to sowing very fine seeds. These seeds are as fine as dust and are barely visible to the naked eye.