Five spot is a versatile plant that can be purchased either by the packet or by the pound, depending on your needs. This flexibility is great for gardeners who may want to start small or have a larger area to cover. Once planted, five spot has the ability to reseed itself easily, which means that you may have new plants popping up in unexpected places. However, despite its ability to spread, five spot is not considered invasive.
I have personally worked with five spot in various garden settings, and I have found it to be a reliable and non-invasive plant. It is well-suited for rock gardens, as its delicate flowers and low-growing habit create a charming and natural look among the rocks. In planters, five spot adds a pop of color and can be easily combined with other annuals or perennials to create interesting and dynamic displays.
In borders, five spot can be used as a border plant itself or as a filler between larger plants. Its compact size and ability to reseed make it a great choice for filling in empty spaces and adding a touch of whimsy to the garden. Additionally, I have found that five spot makes an excellent choice for over-seeding daffodils or tulips. Its early blooming habit means that it can provide color and interest in the garden before the bulbs emerge, creating a seamless transition between seasons.
One of the reasons why five spot is not considered invasive is its relatively controlled growth. While it does have the ability to reseed, it does so in a manner that does not overwhelm other plants or take over the garden. In my experience, the new seedlings can be easily managed by thinning them out or transplanting them to other areas of the garden. This allows for a more intentional and curated garden design, while still enjoying the beauty and charm of the five spot flowers.
Five spot is a versatile and non-invasive plant that can be used in a variety of garden settings. Its ability to reseed easily makes it a great choice for filling in empty spaces or adding a touch of color to existing plantings. Whether used in rock gardens, planters, borders, or for over-seeding bulbs, five spot adds a delightful and effortless beauty to any garden.
