Fivespot (Nemophila maculata)

Prolifically blooming low growing annual for almost all zones. Produces masses of white cup shaped blooms each with five purple spots, one for each petal. The prostrate habit makes it idea for garden edges front borders or anywhere that annual ground cover is needed in sunny areas. In ideal conditions the foliage is fairly dense keeping moisture in the soil rather than evaporating. Grows happily from zone 3-9 with some shade needed in zones 7b-9. Often self seeds zones 6a-8a otherwise yearly sowing is required. The beautiful blooms are very attractive to many pollinators especially solitary bees which need pollinator support. While its very easy to grow its not drought tolerant but needs no maintenance once established.

Low growing annual plant no more than 12 inches (30cm) tall and more commonly about 6 inches (15cm). It has a prostrate habit spread across the ground often forming clumps about 16 inches (40 cm) across. It has slender stems with oblong to ovate leaves up to 1.5 inches (3 cm) long. These are deeply lobed 5-9, almost to the central vein. Each lobe is rounded with a rounded tip light to mid green and softly hairy. They are arranged alternately on the succulent stems. in late spring the blooms appear one on the end of each stem and one from each paired leaf node. Flowers have long thin stems and each has five rounded petals arranged in a bowl shape around a white center. They are white with purple veins and one large purple spot in the top center of each petal 1-2 inches (2-5 cm) across and 0.5-1.5 (1-3cm) long. Flowers are produced prolifically and often totally cover the plant. They are followed by small seed capsules each containing 6-12 small seeds that can self seed in suitable conditions.

These seeds like to have cold before they germinate. The do best if sown directly as soon as the ground can be worked but before the frosts have gone. This gives them the appearance of moist cold winters. Seeds can also be sown in late autumn or early winter for spring germination.
All our seeds are kept cold so they 'think' its winter. We recommend you store your seeds in the refridgerator until ready to sow.
Seeds need light to germinate so do not cover.

Prepare the soil so the top surface is light and fine. Spread the seeds evenly across the surface. Mixing the seeds with sand a different color from you soil helps to spread the seeds more widely and to see where you have sown the seeds. Keep moist and do not cover seeds. Sowing can be done

Less common but can be done. Sow in seed trays or several to a small pot. Use good sterile potting soil and do broadcast seeds carefully across the surface. Do not cover they need light to germinate. Use a spray bottle to water seeds in and ensure there is good contact with the soil. Place in a cool light area. Trays can be placed outside on patio benches or tables or in cold sheds or garages. They do not want warm conditions to germinate.
In most cases germination will take 1-4 weeks but could be longer if temperatures drop below what the seeds deem optimum.

For direct sowing seedlings may need thinning after germination to about 6-12 inches (15-30cm) apart. If done with care seedlings may be transplanted but care should be taken with roots. If pot grown carefully separate seedlings and grow on in individual pots until ready to transplant.
Plants will grow quickly and usually bloom within two months.

Its a cool season annual will grow in almost all zones from 3-10. It will need to be re-seeded each year but in zones 6-8 it may reseed itself and return on a yearly basis. Warmer zones may not provide a cold enough environment for the seeds be conditioned to germinate. In these zones its grown more as a winter annual and may fade in the heat of the summer. It does not tolerate hot humid weather so will not do well in the southeastern section of the US.

Light. Will depend on your zone. 3-7a full sun is ideal 7b and warmer some shade from noon sun is recommended. Dappled shade or other light shading but too much shade will reduce flowering.
Soil. Prefers an moist but well draining soil with moderate fertility. Some compost in the mix before seeding is ideal. Will not do well in heavy soils unless they are amended with compost. Loamy or sandy soil is ideal, its not to fussy about pH provided its not too far from neutral.
Water. Its not drought tolerant at all. In areas where there is reduce rainfall it will need daily watering. A soaker hose at the base works very well and will quickly become covered by the spreading plant and obscured from view. Watering should be increased in times of low rainfall or blooming will be reduced. If possible do not use overhead watering as this can increase the likelihood of mold formation.
Maintenance. None. Its easy to grow and does not need much attention provided it gets enough water it will bloom until mid to late fall. Ensure the area has good air circulation to prevent molds.

The blooms are rich in nectar and are popular with pollinators especially solitary bees so its good for many native species.

None. Its just a pretty plant for pollinators and humans to enjoy.

five spot. fivespot