Baby Blue Eyes Nemophila menziesii

Baby Blue Eyes is an erect, flowering annual in the borage family with a spreading habit that grows best in cool summer climates where nighttime temperatures consistently dip below 65 degrees F. The stems are fleshy and grow to a height of 8 to 12 inches. The green leaves are small and the saucer-shaped bright blue flowers measure 1 1/2 inches across with a light blue center stained with white or yellow and darker spots on the petals. The genus name comes from the Greek nemos meaning wooded pasture or glade and phileo meaning to love in reference to the habitat of some species. The species name honors Archibald Menzies a Scottish botanist, who accompanied George Vancouver aboard HMS Discovery in the early exploration of the Pacific Northwest.

Baby Blue Eyes does best in moist, well-drained soil, in full sun or partial shade. It will tolerate most soil types, but prefers acidic, organically rich soil. In hot summer climates with cold winters, sow seed indoors 6 to 8 weeks before last spring frost date for bloom from spring until the heat of summer arrives. In hot climates with mild winters (USDA Zones 8-10), sow seed in late summer and late fall for winter to spring bloom.

Plants will self-seed in the garden in optimum conditions. Provide regular watering to promote flowering in dry summers. This plant does tolerate light foot traffic.

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems:

Generally disease free. Aphids may be a problem. Plants decline in hot and humid weather.