Confined to South Africa, this figwort family (Scrophulariaceae) genus includes around 65 species of annuals, perennials, and subshrubs. They form small mounds of foliage with toothed, linear, or lance-shaped leaves. Their flowers, which grow in clusters on short stems, are trumpet-shaped and 2-lipped; the upper lip is 4-lobed, the lower lip 1- or 2-lobed, often in a contrasting color. The annuals are popular short-lived bedding plants occurring in a wide range of bright colors. While less vividly colored, the perennials live longer, are sometimes mildly scented, and are useful plants for borders, rockeries, or pots. The genus is named for Nemesis, the goddess of retribution, though the reason why these inoffensive little plants should bear such a name is intriguingly unclear.
CULTIVATION
Plant in a sunny position with light free-draining soil that can be kept moist. Pinch back leaf tips when plants are young to keep the compact shape. Annuals should be sown in succession for continuous bloom. The perennials tolerate light frosts and grow from the cuttings of non-flowering stems.
Top Tip
Nemesia species flower for only a short time but it is possible to prolong the flowering period by cutting the plants back hard when the blooms have finished.
CULTIVATION
Plant in a sunny position with light free-draining soil that can be kept moist. Pinch back leaf tips when plants are young to keep the compact shape. Annuals should be sown in succession for continuous bloom. The perennials tolerate light frosts and grow from the cuttings of non-flowering stems.
Top Tip
Nemesia species flower for only a short time but it is possible to prolong the flowering period by cutting the plants back hard when the blooms have finished.
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