Nelsonia

Nelsonia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Acanthaceae. The genus comprises three species, all of which are native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. These plants are herbaceous perennials, typically growing to a height of about 30 centimeters. They are characterized by their opposite, simple leaves and their showy, trumpet-shaped flowers, which are usually pink or purple. The flowers bloom from late spring through summer.

The species within the Nelsonia genus are Nelsonia canescens, Nelsonia gracilis, and Nelsonia nevadensis. Nelsonia canescens is the most widespread species, found in Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas, as well as in Mexico. Nelsonia gracilis is found in Arizona and Mexico, while Nelsonia nevadensis is restricted to a small area in Nevada.

These plants typically grow in arid or semi-arid habitats, often found in rocky soils, deserts, and open woodlands. They are well-adapted to dry conditions and can tolerate a range of soil types. Nelsonia species are often found in association with other desert flora.

The genus Nelsonia was named in honor of Professor Niels E. Nelson, a botanist who conducted extensive fieldwork in the southwestern United States. The plants are not widely cultivated, but they are of interest to botanists and native plant enthusiasts. Their ecological role includes providing nectar for pollinators.