Nemophila maculata aka Fivespot

Nemophila maculata is a small annual known as five spot. It belongs to the borage family, Boraginaceae. Its native range runs from Oregon into California. Kew lists it as a plant of subtropical regions. It is not native to Britain or Ireland. Its spotted white blooms provide its main garden interest.

The plant forms a bushy clump with small, pinnately lobed leaves. RHS describes plants reaching about 0.8 feet [0.25 metres] tall. Its broader size range allows heights up to 1.6 feet [0.5 metres]. The listed spread also reaches 1.6 feet [0.5 metres]. Its foliage is deciduous. Each flower grows alone and opens into a shallow bowl. The white blooms measure about 0.13 feet [0.04 metres] across. A violet spot marks the tip of each petal. These five marks stand out against the pale flower. Missouri Botanical Garden lists flowering from April to June.

Grow five spot in full sun or partial shade. RHS recommends fertile loam that stays moist but drains well. It accepts acid, neutral, and alkaline soil. Both exposed and sheltered sites suit it. Water during dry summer spells to help it keep flowering. Missouri Botanical Garden gives its water needs as moderate. Long spells of heat and humidity cause a sharp decline. RHS assigns it the UK hardiness rating H4. That rating covers minimum temperatures from −10 to −5°C under UK conditions.

Use this low plant along bed edges or in borders. It also suits rock gardens and large groups. Pots and hanging baskets offer other ways to grow it. RHS includes courtyard, cottage, and informal gardens among suitable settings. Its modest size also suits patio containers. Sow seed where plants will grow, in spring or autumn. RHS advises cutting plants back once flowering ends.

Aphids are a pest to watch for on this species. RHS reports that disease is not a usual concern. Missouri Botanical Garden also reports few serious pest or disease problems. However, it notes that powdery mildew and downy mildew can occur. Its overall maintenance rating is medium. The supplied sources give no clear information on edible parts. They also do not establish whether the plant is toxic.