Linaria

L. maroccana 'Northern Lights' pictured above.

A delightful, whimsy annual that is sure to add sprays of color to your garden. Though their blooms are small and delicate in appearance, they come in a variety of vibrant colors that pack a punch when planted in groups!

Linaria is originally native to temperate climates in Europe, Asia, and northern Africa, but the highest species diversity is found in Mediterranean regions.

The brightly colored blooms look like small, spurred snapdragons that sit upon medium green, narrow-leaved foliage. They bloom all throughout spring and summer.

L. maroccana ‘Northern Lights’ grows 1 ½-2’H and 6”W. It comes in shades of red, orange, and yellow, as well as bicolors.

Linaria 'Flamenco' pictured above

Plant in full sun or light shade and water regularly. Be careful not to overwater as they are susceptible to root rot. Linaria is not too picky about soil, but well-draining soil is best. If you sow plants from seed, you’ll want to sow in early spring after danger of frost has passed. Once established, linaria can self-sow and grow so vigorously that they are often regarded as an invasive weed! You can prune the flowers back once they bloom to prevent self-seeding.

These are highly favored and irresistible to the local pollinators and there’s usually a frenzy of activity around the blooms. Bees and butterflies are drawn to the abundant nectar and pollen-rich flowers which makes linaria excellent for pollinator gardens.

Can you spot the bumblebee in motion on this L. Licilia Azure?

They’re easy to grow and can be tucked between other herbaceous plants as a filler in borders or planted in woodland gardens. Their long, whispy stems make them a great cut flower.

Some parts of the plant are toxic to livestock so they are not generally preferred by farmers.

The Sunset Western Garden zones are 1-24