Nemesia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Scrophulariaceae, order Lamiales, comprising annuals, perennials, and sub-shrubs. The genus is native to South Africa, where species grow on sandy coasts and in disturbed ground habitats.
The flowers are distinctively two-lipped (bilabiate): the upper lip is divided into four lobes and the lower lip into two lobes, producing an asymmetric, snapdragon-like appearance that ranges in colour across white, yellow, orange, pink, purple, and bicolour combinations. Numerous hybrids and cultivars have been developed through horticultural selection, and annual cultivars are widely used as bedding plants.
In temperate gardens outside their native range, Nemesia plants are typically treated as half-hardy. They are raised from seed under heat and transplanted outdoors only after the last frost. Several cultivars have received the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit, reflecting the genus's popularity in ornamental horticulture.
Etymology
The genus name Nemesia derives from the ancient Greek nemesis or a related term; it was applied by the botanist Richard Anthony Salisbury in the late 18th century. The precise derivation is not fully documented in available sources.
Distribution
Nemesia is native to South Africa, occurring primarily on sandy coastal soils and in areas of disturbed ground. The genus does not occur naturally outside southern Africa.
Cultivation
In temperate climates, Nemesia is treated as a half-hardy annual or short-lived perennial. Plants are typically started from seed under heat and moved outdoors after all risk of frost has passed. The genus thrives in well-drained, fertile soil in full sun to partial shade. Many hybrid cultivars are available, including those awarded the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.
