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Fairy Mirror (Nemesia)

The fairy mirror, a member of the Asteraceae family and originally from southern Africa, hasn't been available in Germany for very long. However, the popularity of this true flowering wonder is growing year after year. Accordingly, the variety of this summer flower, which is particularly suitable for hanging baskets and window boxes, is also growing.

Die zarten Blüten des Elfenspiegels haben wunderbar harmonische Farben in rosa, Flieder und weiß.
© Emma Manners – 123RF

Growth form:

The plant grows very quickly and easily into round, profusely flowering spheres. However, after pruning, the newly emerging flower shoots become increasingly longer, easily reaching a height of 50 cm.

Blossom:

The fairy mirror has a two-lipped flower. The flowers, arranged in clusters, are available in white, yellow, orange, red, and now also multicolored umbels. Dwarf specimens form dense flower cushions, while bushy ones are notable for their large, funnel-shaped blossoms.

The Fairy Mirror blooms relatively late, from the end of June. However, it can be coaxed into a second flowering period by cutting back the plant vigorously after the first bloom.

Leaves:

The leaves are simple and oppositely arranged, the shape is lanceolate.

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Location requirements:

The Fairy Mirror loves the sun; you won't enjoy it in a shady spot. It also doesn't like rain. It's best to place the pot in a somewhat sheltered spot, such as under an overhanging roof.

Care:

Because of its vigorous growth, the Fairy Mirror requires a lot of water, at a comfortable temperature and free of lime—rainwater is best. When the top layer of soil, about 1 cm thick, has dried out, it needs more watering. It also appreciates a regular shower from a spray bottle. A light fertilization with compost is recommended. Don't forget to cut off faded heads immediately.

Reproduction:

The fairy mirror can be easily grown in a pot or box; preferably as early as March, so the flowers don't appear too late. After the seeds are sown, germination takes about two to three weeks at a temperature of 14 to 16 degrees Celsius, after which the temperature should be lowered slightly. Once the plants are a bit larger, they are grouped together in clumps. After the Ice Saints, the plants can then take their permanent place in the sun.

Varieties:

In this country, two varieties and their hybrids are mainly traded.

Nemesia 'strumosa': delicate, richly branched stems, flowers in all possible colors, often several colors on one plant

Nemesia 'fruticans': up to 60 cm high, blooms all summer

TEXT: Annette Henning

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