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Description
Nemophila Maculata, also known as Five Spot, is a flowering plant belonging to the family Boraginaceae. It is native to California but can also be found in Oregon and Arizona. This annual plant grows up to 16 inches tall and 12 inches wide, producing white flowers with violet-blue spots that bloom from March to May. It is a popular choice for gardeners due to its attractive appearance and ease of cultivation.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Nemophila |
| Species | Nemophila Maculata |
Appearance
Nemophila Maculata has a bushy growth habit with light green leaves that are deeply lobed and covered in fine hairs. The flowers are five-petaled, measuring about one inch in diameter, and have a white base with violet-blue spots that form a ring around a central yellow stamen. The plant usually blooms from March to May and can produce flowers for up to two months. It is a fast-growing plant and can reach up to 16 inches in height and 12 inches in width.
Care Guide
Nemophila Maculata is easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips for its care:Water: The plant prefers moderate watering and should be watered regularly during the growing season. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied once a month during the growing season.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. It can grow in most soil types but thrives in sandy loam soil.Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun or partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may produce fewer flowers.Hardiness Zones: Nemophila Maculata is hardy in USDA zones 5-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Nemophila Maculata is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and spider mites. Powdery mildew can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. Spider mites can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Nemophila Maculata is native to California but can also be found in Oregon and Arizona. It grows in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, meadows, and open woodlands. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun or partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Nemophila Maculata a perennial or annual plant?
A: Nemophila Maculata is an annual plant.Q: What is the blooming period of Nemophila Maculata?
A: Nemophila Maculata usually blooms from March to May.Q: Can Nemophila Maculata grow in shade?
A: Nemophila Maculata prefers full sun or partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may produce fewer flowers.Q: How tall can Nemophila Maculata grow?
A: Nemophila Maculata can grow up to 16 inches tall.
Related Plants
Other plants in the genus Nemophila include:
- Nemophila Menziesii
- Nemophila Parviflora
- Nemophila Phacelioides
References
- “Nemophila Maculata Five Spot.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d280.
- “Nemophila Maculata.” PlantFiles, Dave’s Garden, https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/583/.
- “Nemophila Maculata.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/nemophila-maculata-growing-guide-4842271.
