Nemophila

Baby blue eyes (Nemophila menziesii) is an erect annual in the borage family with small, lobed leaves and saucer-shaped bright blue flowers that often have a white or yellow center. The flowers are about 1½ inches (4 cm) across and show darker spots on the petals.

In cooler summer areas, sow seed indoors about 6 to 8 weeks before the last spring frost date to get blooms from spring until summer heat arrives. In hot areas with mild winters (USDA zones 8 to 10), sow in late summer and late fall for bloom from winter to spring. Seed can also be sown where the plants will grow, in spring or autumn. Plant in moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. It tolerates most soil types but grows best in acidic, organically rich soil.

Water regularly during dry summers to encourage flowering. No pruning is needed. The plant tolerates light foot traffic and often self-seeds when conditions are good.

The plant is generally disease-free, but aphids can be a problem. Plants decline in hot, humid weather.