How to Grow Nemesia: Cool-Weather Color for Beds, Boxes, and Butterflies

How to Grow Nemesia

Nemesia (Nemesia strumosa) is a cheerful, trouble-free annual from South Africa, related to snapdragons. It bears dense clusters of bright solid and bicolor flowers in orange, red, pink, yellow, and white from spring through summer on 1–2 foot plants. Attracts hummingbirds and butterflies; makes good cut flowers.

Propagation

Sow seeds directly when soil warms above 60°F, or start indoors 6 weeks before last frost. Germinates in 7–14 days. Can also root cuttings.

How to Grow Nemesia

• Light: Full sun to part shade.
• Soil: Rich, humusy, well-drained; amend generously with compost.
• Water: Keep evenly moist, not wet.
• Fertilizer: Monthly balanced feed.
• Maintenance: Deadhead spent blooms. Pro tip: Shear plants back by half in midsummer to trigger a fresh flush of flowers.

Bloom Time

Spring through summer.

Pests & Diseases

Uncommon. Treat early if they appear.