Nemesia
( nem - EE - see- uh )
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At-A-Glance InformationThis colorful genus of annuals and perennials is native to South America and need full sun and regular water for best performance. Some species are fragrant, and all produce subshrubs with eye-catching floral displays in spring and summertime. Flowers are two-lipped, with the upper lip consisting of four lobes and the lower lip two lobes. Use these blooming superstars in mixed beds, container plantings or along pathways.
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Nemesia Species and Varietals
The genus Nemesia is a member of the plant family Scrophulariaceae and includes over 50 species. Nemesia growing zones vary depending on the species. For more information, see the descriptions below. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.
Nemesia caerulea (Nemesia foetens, Nemesia fruticans)
This perennial grows best in zones 14-24 and is grown as an annual elsewhere. It reaches 2 feet tall and a foot wide. Foliage is bright green and stems carry multiple fragrant blossoms in blue, pink or lavender (the plain species color is blue-purple). These plants can bloom for a long period of time without much special attention. Cut back to stimulate new growth and continued bloom if necessary. Select varieties are described below.
This perennial grows best in zones 14-24 and is grown as an annual elsewhere. It reaches 2 feet tall and a foot wide. Foliage is bright green and stems carry multiple fragrant blossoms in blue, pink or lavender (the plain species color is blue-purple). These plants can bloom for a long period of time without much special attention. Cut back to stimulate new growth and continued bloom if necessary. Select varieties are described below.
'Innocence Compact'
Yellow flowers are centered white. |
'Innocence Compact Pink'
This variety has pink blooms. |
Poetry Series
12-14 inches tall in a variety of colors. |
Aromatica Series
12-14 inches tall in a variety of colors. |
Sunsatia Series
6-12 inches tall, with a range of bloom colors. |
'Bluebird'
Blue to violet blooms have yellow centers. |
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Nemesia cheiranthus (Long-Eared Nemesia) These striking flowers are native to South Africa, where they are grown as annuals. The flowers are yellow, white, and occasionally have purple markings. Leaves are toothed and lance-shaped. Plants typically reach 16 inches tall when in bloom. This species prefers sandy soils. Popular garden cultivars are 'Shooting Stars' and 'Masquerade'. |
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Nemesia denticulata (Toothed Aloha) These natives of the eastern Cape of South Africa form mats of foliage and produce spikes of pink flowers. Flowers are white and have yellow markings towards their centers. These plants bloom between February and September in their native range. |
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Nemesia linearis (Witleeubekkie) These flowers have an unpleasant smell, and reach up to 36 inches tall when in bloom. Flowers appear on tall spikes, and are spaced a bit apart. Blooms are white with yellow markings and bloom between February and September in the plant's native range in southern Africa. |
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Nemesia strumosa (Cape Jewels, Pouch Nemesia) This annual grows best in zones 1-24 and reaches 1.5 feet tall and 1 foot wide. Flowers in this species are usually hybrids, and flowers are unscented. Blooms are a bit differently-shaped, more like a chalice, coming in every color except green. Can be purchased at a nursery or grown from seed. They prefer rich soil and regular moisture, and can be pinched to encourage a more bushy growth habit. Cultivar 'Danish Flag' has red and white flowers. |
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Nemesia versicolor (Variable Lionface, Kappieblommetjie, Weeskindertjies) This species of Nemesia is an annual that does best in zones 1-24 and reaches 8-10 inches tall and just as wide. Flowers are unscented in this species and come in a variety of colors, usually blue, yellow and white. These plants are endemic to the Northern and Western Cape Provinces of South Africa. |
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Caring for Nemesia
Propagation
Problems and Pests
Gallery
Camellias are great candidates to be grown as container plants on your patio.
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A field of thea sinensis
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Camellia hiemalis 'Shishi Gashira'
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Videos
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A video all about growing camellias successfully
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Propagating camellias
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Resources
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page 453, Nemesia
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