Nemesia ‘Nesia™ Burgundy’: A Bold Burst of Burgundy for Containers and Beds
Nemesia ‘Nesia™ Burgundy’ brings bold color and refined charm to spring and summer gardens. This vibrant cultivar from the Nemesia hybrida Nesia™ Series is bred by Danziger for outstanding performance, especially in warmer climates. With its profuse burgundy blooms and lightly fragrant scent, this variety stands out in containers, window boxes, and borders. While most often grown as an annual, it may overwinter in mild zones, offering lasting beauty through late summer and even autumn.
Nemesia ‘Nesia™ Burgundy’ belongs to the Figwort family, Scrophulariaceae, a diverse group of mostly herbaceous flowering plants. Members of this family are known for their ornamental appeal and often attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, making them valuable additions to gardens and containers.
Origins and Traits
Native to South Africa, Nemesia species thrive in disturbed areas and sandy coastal soils. ‘Nesia™ Burgundy’ belongs to the Nesia™ Series, a line of hybrids developed to handle heat better and bloom more abundantly than standard types. Reaching 25–40 cm (10–16 inches) in height and spreading 25–30 cm (10–12 inches) wide, this compact, mounded plant grows quickly and fills in containers beautifully. It thrives in USDA Zones 9–11, where it may act as a tender perennial, but is typically grown as an annual elsewhere.
Flowers and Foliage
The flowers of Nemesia ‘Nesia™ Burgundy’ are a showstopper. Large, two-lipped tubular blossoms appear in dense clusters on upright stems, glowing in deep crimson-red with burgundy centers and a subtle magenta sheen. These blooms have a light scent with a sweet fragrance and draw pollinators like bees and butterflies.
The foliage is equally attractive, with fine-textured, lance-shaped leaves in a vibrant green. The leaves are lightly toothed, forming a dense mat that stays fresh throughout the season and offers an elegant backdrop to the blooms.
Flowering Season of Nemesia ‘Nesia™ Burgundy’
One of the major strengths of Nemesia ‘Nesia™ Burgundy’ is its extended bloom period. It begins flowering in early spring and continues well into summer or early autumn, depending on climate. In cooler regions, blooming may persist longer. The heat-tolerant breeding of the Nesia™ Series makes it more resilient than traditional Nemesias, keeping the garden lively even as temperatures rise.
How to Grow Nemesia ‘Nesia™ Burgundy’
Light
Plant Nemesia ‘Nesia™ Burgundy’ in full sun to part shade. Aim for 6–8 hours of sun per day, though in hot climates, a bit of afternoon shade will keep it happier and extend the flowering period.
Soil
Provide rich, moist, well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. Amend heavy or clay soils with compost or coarse sand. In containers, use a quality potting mix blended with perlite for aeration.
Watering
Keep the soil consistently moist but never soggy. Water deeply at the base to avoid wetting the foliage. In garden beds, watering 1–2 times per week is generally sufficient, increasing during hot spells. Container-grown plants may need daily checks, especially in heat.
Fertilizing
Feed Nemesia ‘Nesia™ Burgundy’ with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2–4 weeks. Alternatively, apply a slow-release granular fertilizer in spring. Commercial growers often use a constant feed of 150–200 ppm nitrogen to maintain lush growth and prolific blooms.
Pruning and Deadheading
Remove faded flowers regularly to encourage new ones. Pinching young plants will encourage a fuller shape. If flowering slows or plants stretch, shear back by one-third to rejuvenate. As an annual, remove plants after the first frost. If treated as a tender perennial, prune hard after flowering to prepare for overwintering indoors.
Propagation
Propagate Nemesia hybrids like ‘Nesia™ Burgundy’ by seed or cuttings. However, due to hybrid vigor and series uniformity, propagation by licensed growers is recommended. Home gardeners generally purchase young plants.
Pests and Diseases
Nemesia ‘Nesia™ Burgundy’ is relatively problem-free but may occasionally face issues with aphids, spider mites, or whiteflies. These can be managed with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Keep foliage dry to avoid fungal problems such as botrytis. Good air circulation helps minimize disease risk.
Uses in the Garden
Use Nemesia ‘Nesia™ Burgundy’ as a filler in container arrangements, spilling gently over edges. It also works well in mixed borders, window boxes, and hanging baskets. Thanks to its fragrant flowers and pollinator appeal, it enhances both ornamental and ecological value.
Why Choose Nemesia ‘Nesia™ Burgundy’
With its brilliant burgundy blooms, refined fragrance, and long-lasting floral display, Nemesia ‘Nesia™ Burgundy’ delivers high impact in a compact form. It adapts well to garden beds and containers alike and continues to shine throughout the warm season. Whether you’re refreshing your spring display or brightening up a summer patio, this dependable, heat-tolerant Nemesia offers style and substance in one elegant package.
