Five Spot (Nemophila maculata): Growing Guide for Low-Growing Wildflowers

Five Spot (Nemophila maculata)

Five Spot is a charming, low-growing annual (6–9 in) with white, buttercup-shaped flowers each bearing a purple spot on its five petals. Native to US meadows, it blooms heavily spring to summer. Perfect for rock gardens, borders, containers, and front of beds.

Quick Facts

• Common Names: Five Spot, Buffalo Eyes
• Botanical Name: Nemophila maculata
• Plant Height: 6–9 in (15–23 cm)
• Bloom Time: Spring to Summer
• Life Cycle: Annual (tender, frost-killed)

Growing from Seed

• Direct sow: Spring after frost, 1/8–1/16 in deep.
• Indoor start: 6–8 weeks before frost.
• Germination: 7–20 days. Mark spots!
• Spacing: 6 in apart.

Care Requirements

Light

Full to partial sun. Partial shade in hot climates.

Soil

Most soils. Amend poor soil with compost.

Watering

Regular, especially in heat.

Fertilizer

Every 6–8 weeks general purpose.

Maintenance

Weed early. Succumbs to first frost.

Pests & Diseases

• Infrequent.