Melinda Myers

Nierembergia

Botanical Name

Nierembergia

Hardiness

Zones 7 to 10, grown as an annual elsewhere

Height

6 to 12 inches

Width

6 to 12 inches

Flowers

Summer: blue, violet, white

Light

Full sun to part shade

Soil

Moist, well-drained, rich in organic matter

Planting & Care

• Provide consistent moisture
• Nierembergia benefits from light shade if grown in hot and dry climates
• Best flowering occurs in cool summer climates
• Mulch soil with a layer of organic matter to retain soil moisture and keep soil cool
• Sow seeds directly outdoors a few weeks before the last frost date or indoors 8-10 weeks before last spring frost
• Pinch plants for fuller growth
• Deadhead for repeated bloom
• Cut plants back during mid summer heat if flowering has declined, this will encourage flowering later in the season
• Stem cuttings can be taken later in the season for overwintering indoors

Problems

None serious

Varieties

• Monte Blanc - white flowers, 6" tall, 1993 AAS Winner
• Purple Robe - violet blue flowers, 8"
• Regal Robe - deep purple flowers, 6"