Linaria repens
pale toadflax
An herbaceous perennial with an erect, branching habit, growing up to 20 to 75cm in height with blue-green, linear leaves that have a fleshy texture measuring from 1.5 to 4cm in length. The flowers are a soft, pale lilac or lavender with darker purple veins running through the petals. Each flower is two-lipped, resembling a small snapdragon, and features a distinctive long spur at the back blooming from June to September
Synonyms
Linaria striataAntirrhinum repens
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Purple White | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Plantaginaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Genus
Linaria can be annuals, biennials or herbaceous perennials, with simple leaves and terminal racemes of 2-lipped flowers with conspicuous spurs
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moderately fertile, light, well-drained soil in full sun. See Creating wildflower meadows for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by seed in pots in a cold frame in early spring. Propagate by division or softwood cuttings in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildflower meadow
- Wildlife gardens
Pruning
For more information see cutting back herbaceous perennials
Pests
May be susceptible to aphids
Diseases
May be susceptible to powdery mildews
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