Nemophila – Five Spot

Nemophila maculata. This low growing member of the Borage family is native to the hills of California, but grows well in most temperate garden soils. It takes its name from the conspicuous five spots of its 2cm (1″) wide flowers, which have evolved to attract solitary bees. Both male and female bees feed on its nectar, but females also gather its pollen to feed to their larvae. Five Spot grows 15-23cm (6-9″) tall and blooms in spring. It is very easy to grow from seed and can be direct sown in early spring or in the fall in mild areas. It works well in containers, rock gardens, or as an edging for raised beds.

Annual.