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nemesia strumosa
Also known as: ["Nemesia caerulea","Nemesia caerulea var. strumosa"]
Overview
A delicate annual flowering plant with vibrant, two-lipped flowers in shades of pink, purple, and white, native to South Africa.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Scrophulariaceae |
| Genus: | Nemesia |
| Botanical Name: | Nemesia strumosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or outdoor garden bed in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 4–6 weeks during active growth
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if needed
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.
Watering
every 5–7 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, fertile potting mix with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0)
Use a mix designed for flowering plants; avoid heavy garden soil; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures (50–60°F or 10–15°C) at night promote better flowering.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; use a fan for gentle air circulation in hot weather; keep away from heat vents.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth, with balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Water lightly.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), indirect light
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand
Hormone
Recommended to encourage faster rooting
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 6–8 weeks
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node
Pruning Plan
Encourage bushier growth and more blooms; remove spent flowers to prolong flowering period.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or weak stems; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growth period begins
Pot Size
One size up; ensure pot has drainage holes
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease out crowded roots; place in a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for maintaining vigor and flowering.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water at base; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or reduced flowering in extreme heat or cold; yellowing leaves in sudden temperature shifts.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and flowering; prolonged exposure can cause leaf damage or death.
Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in fall; provide a warm, draft-free environment.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; flowering may cease in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; monitor for signs of over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2–4 weeks during active growth (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicNemesia strumosa is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not pose a known risk of poisoning to felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic to cats
Dogs
Non-toxicNemesia strumosa is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic to dogs
Humans
Non-toxicNemesia strumosa is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. The plant does not produce known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic to humans
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Nemesia strumosa?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot.
Q: Does Nemesia strumosa attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its fragrant flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Can Nemesia strumosa be grown indoors?
A: It can be grown indoors with sufficient light, but it thrives best in outdoor garden settings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Scrophulariaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 5–7 days, allowing soi |
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