One of 60 Nemesia species native to southern Africa, Nemesia strumosa has been cultivated as an ornamental for many years and is among the most popular of the genus, producing orchid-like flowers in yellow, orange, pink, cream, red, mauve, and white — often bicolored — on compact plants 6 to 12 inches tall and wide. The flowers appear on racemes or singly at the leaf axils from late spring to the first frost in mild climates, and the name strumosa refers to the cushion-like swellings at the base of each bloom.

In hot climates it performs best in the cooler shoulder seasons, spring and fall, going into decline when temperatures climb; afternoon shade helps extend the display during warm spells. Full sun suits it well in cool weather. Pinch the growing tips early to encourage bushy growth and deadhead spent flowers to maintain production. It works well in borders, containers, and hanging baskets, and in frost-free climates can be carried through as a winter annual.