Angelonia (Angelonia angustifolia)

Angelonia

Features and Characteristics

Angelonia angustifolia, commonly called angelonia or summer snapdragon, is native to Mexico and the West Indies. It is an upright, glabrous, somewhat bushy, tropical perennial that is noted for its long summer bloom of small snapdragon-like flowers. Plants typically grow 12-18” tall. Stems are clad with narrow, oblong to lanceolate, green leaves (to 3” long) with toothed margins. Foliage is slightly aromatic. Bluish-purple flowers (each to 3/4” across) bloom from late spring to early fall in narrow terminal spikes (to 8” long). The two-lipped flowers are somewhat reminiscent of snapdragon. Cultivars are available in white, blue, light pink and bicolor flower colors.

Genus name comes from the Latinized version of the South American vernacular name of one of the species of these perennial herbs and sub-shrubs.

Care and Maintenance

Winter hardy to USDA Zones 9-1 In St. Louis, it is grown as a bedding or container annual. Prefers moist, fertile soils with good drainage. Some drought tolerance. Good tolerance for summer heat and humidity. Plants grown in containers may be difficult to overwinter indoors. Consider purchasing new plants from local nurseries each spring.

Angelonia (Angelonia angustifolia) Requirements

Hardiness zone	9 - 11
Sun light	Full sun
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Low

Common Problems

No serious insect or disease problems. Watch for aphids and powdery mildew.

Uses

In St. Louis, grow as annuals massed in beds and borders. Also appropriate for containers.

Angelonia (Angelonia angustifolia) Details

Common name	Angelonia
Botanical name	Angelonia angustifolia
Plant type	Herbaceous perennial
Family	Plantaginaceae
Hardiness zone	9 - 11
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Low
Flower color	Deep mauve to violet, white, pink, bicolors
Flowering period	June - September
Height	1 - 1.50 feet
Width	0.75 to 1 ft.