Amarine Belladiva Paris - Amarine x tubergenii

The Amarine Belladiva 'Paris' is a hybrid Nerine resulting from the cross-breeding of Nerine bowdenii and Amaryllis belladonna. This cultivar is distinguished by its pale pink flowers, combining the characteristics of its two parents. Its large star-shaped flowers, gathered in hemispherical umbels atop sturdy stems, resemble the Amaryllis, while the delicately undulating petals evoke the Nerine. Its light green ribbon-like deciduous foliage accompanies the flowering. Moderately hardy, this plant prefers a sunny exposure, sheltered from the wind, in a very well-drained soil, even dry in summer. Still relatively unknown, it charms both in borders and in large pots on a terrace.

Like its parents, the Amarine is a hardy bulbous plant up to -12°C in well-drained soil, belonging to the Amaryllidaceae family. It was obtained through hybridisation in the 1950s. This original plant, which honours its two parents by combining their qualities, has remained somewhat confidential with us until today. Its cultivation is however, no more difficult than that of the Amaryllis belladona. From a large ovoid bulb emerges in September a tuft of linear, 1 to 2 cm wide, light green leaves, which disappear in July-August. Green herbaceous stems, 60 to 75 cm tall, appear in September bearing at their tips a crown of 6 undulating and recurved petals, arranged in a star shape. The flowers have a thick and slightly translucent texture. Large stamens protrude from the heart of the flower, further accentuating its lightness. The flowering period, quite long, extends until October.

This exceptional, particularly decorative plant thrives ideally in a large pot in cooler climates where its hardiness can be put to the test. In winter, it is preferable to shelter it to protect it from the cold, while in summer, it finds its place on a sunny patio. In the ground, choose a warm exposure, sheltered from the wind, such as near a wall, with very well-drained soil, similar to the growing conditions suitable for an agapanthus. It integrates perfectly in a coastal setting, in an English cottage-style garden or in an urban garden, and becomes a remarkable focal point in an exotic or contemporary layout. Used as cut flowers, it brings freshness and originality indoors, enhancing a vase with its delicate hues.