Family: Solanaceae
Common Name: Cup Flower

Native to Argentina, Mexico and Chile, this genus consists of more than 20 species of perennials and sub-shrubs with fine foliage. Masses of blue, and occasionally white, cup-shaped flowers appear in summer and again in autumn, if cut back after the first flush. They generally grow to about 25 cm (10 in), with some reaching 1 m (3 ft), and suit borders and rock gardens. The perennials are often grown as annuals for summer bedding.

Species

N. caerulea produces masses of lavender-blue flowers with yellow throats. Cultivar 'Purple Robe' is a small, bush' perennial with purple flowers, best grown as an annual.

N. repens, a creeping plant rooting at the nodes, has large, cream flowers.

N. scoparia is one of the shrubby species, growing to around 45 cm (18 in) high. It has pale blue flowers, edged in white.

Cultivation

These plants will grow in poor soils, but really thrive in better soils. They pre­fer a sunny situation and require ample water during dry weather. Raise plants from seed sown in spring under glass and germinated at 15°C (59°F). Plant out when frosts are over. Take cuttings of perennials in summer. N. repens can be divided in spring.

Climate

Zone 9. Zone 10 for N. caerulea.