About

An upright, bushy annual producing spikes of massed of small, snapdragon-like flowers, 20-30cm high, in a range of both bold and pastel colours in summer.

About the genus

Linaria can be annuals, biennials or herbaceous perennials, with simple leaves and terminal racemes of 2-lipped flowers with conspicuous spurs

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun
Soil typeSand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6

Plant details

Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden

Care notes

CultivationGrow in moderately fertile, light, well-drained soil; sandy soil is ideal. Full sun essential
PruningAfter flowering, plants can be cut back to prevent self-seeding
PropagationPropagate by seed in pots in a cold frame in early spring. Propagate by division or softwood cuttings in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews