Growing Nemesia

Latin Name Pronunciation: neh-mee' see-uh 

Nemesias are a group of about 60 species of plants mostly native to southern Africa. A few of these species are annuals that are commonly used in the U.S. as bedding plants and in containers. Plants thrive in full sun to part shade and moist, well-drained soil that is enriched with organic matter (such as compost) and a layer of mulch to keep the soil cool. They are cool weather annuals that perform and flower best when daytime temperatures are moderate, and evenings are cool. In hotter regions, plants benefit from afternoon shade, especially where nighttime temperatures remain in the upper 70’s and above. In the heat and humidity of summer, if the air and soil around the plants become too hot, flowers may subside. If this happens, a light cutting back might be helpful to increase branching and promote new flowering once the weather cools in autumn, or plants can be removed. Deadheading is not necessary, as plants are self-cleaning, and pruning only needs to be done to shape plants, if desired. No serious insect or disease problems. Perennial in Zones 9-10.

For information on planting and care of annuals, click here.