Linaria can be either hardy annuals or perennials and vary in height from 15 cm to 1.2 m (6 to 47 inches).
They have lance shaped leaves and carry flowers that are similar to those of snapdragon.
They bloom from the end of spring through to the middle of summer, and have flowers of many colours, including orange, purple and gold.
Linaria vulgaris - Common Toadflax by Anemoneprojectors; creative commons.
Where you grow Linaria depends upon the species, smaller ones go well in the rock garden while larger varieties can be used in the border.
Some of the common names for Linaria include Toadflax, Baby Snapdragon, Spurred snapdragon, and Butter and Eggs.
Linaria alpina – Alpine Toadflax by Francesca.c.r.
When growing Toadflax and other members of the Linaria plant genus outdoors from seed, then sow out about three weeks before the last frost of spring, and continue sowing (using pre-chilled seeds) regularly for an extended flowering season.
Once sown lightly cover the seeds. Toadflax likes to grow in sunny areas; the soil type is not important.
If starting the plants off indoors then you will first need to imbibe the Linaria seeds by placing the seeds (within soil) in a black plastic bag, then placing in the fridge for three weeks.
Seeds should then be sown out in the light at a temperature of 12 to 15 Celsius; they normally take about 10 to 14 days to germinate.
Once growing, transplant the seedlings from the last frost onwards at a spacing of 25 cm to 90 cm depending upon the size of the Linaria variety.
Linaria is a relatively easy plant to look after; water regularly in dry periods; thin perennials; cut back annuals for a second bloom.
If you require more perennial Linaria then divide in the spring or take cuttings at the start of summer.
Linaria vulgaris, the Common Toadflax, image by Andreas Rockstein; CC.
Linaria bipartita, the Clovenlip toadflax, photograph by k yamada; CC.
Linaria purpurea photograph by Dr Mary Gillham Archive Project; CC.
Linaria maroccana, also known as Moroccan toadflax, photograph by 阿橋 HQ; CC.
Linaria alpina, the Alpine toadflax, image by Björn S...; CC.
The Linaria genus, also known as toadflax, contains about 150 species. They are small flowering plants that can be annual or perennial.
Yes, Linaria can make excellent garden plants. They are low-maintenance, drought-tolerant and their bright flowers can bring lots of colors to a garden.
The most commonly grown species are Linaria purpurea (Purple Toadflax) and Linaria maroccana (Moroccan Toadflax).
Linaria plants aren't typically known for their fragrance, but they are cherished for their abundant, vibrant flowers.
Linaria prefers full sun and well-drained soil. They are excellent for rock gardens, borders, or as ground cover.
Presently, Linaria vulgaris (Common Toadflax) is considered invasive in several states, particularly in the western USA.
To remove Linaria, pull up the entire plant, ensuring to remove all the roots. Persistent removal will be necessary as they can reseed.
The Linaria genus, part of the Plantaginaceae family, includes annual and perennial plants native to Europe, northern Africa, and Asia. Recognized for their small, snapdragon-like flowers, these plants are often used in borders and rock gardens.
Linaria enjoys full sun and well-drained soil. Regular watering is necessary, especially during dry periods. Propagation is typically achieved through seeds, sown in the spring or fall.
I hope that you enjoyed this guide on how to grow Linaria plants. You may also enjoy the following Gardener's HQ growing guides: How to grow Antirrhinum and Collinsia plants.