About
Linaria vulgaris, the common toadflax, is an erect, spreading perennial with stiff stems bearing narrow, pale-green, spirally arranged leaves. Pale-yellow flowers resembling small snapdragons appear in dense spikes from late spring to mid-autumn. A cheerful, long-flowering, wildlife-friendly plant for a wildflower meadow or informal border.
About the genus
Linaria, the toadflaxes, are annuals, biennials or herbaceous perennials with simple leaves and terminal racemes of two-lipped flowers with conspicuous spurs. Excellent plants for sunny borders, gravel gardens and wildflower meadows.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Wildflower meadow
Native toEurope, SW Asia
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moderately fertile, light, well-drained soil in full sun
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