Grow a beautiful display of colors with Spurred snapdragons (Linaria maroccana.) Spurred Snapdragon plants grow to a mature height of roughly 12 to 15 inches tall, and spread about 6 to 8 inches wide. The blossoms are 3/4″ in size and grow on long stems called racimes. They were originally light purple, but have been developed into many colors since the beginning. These colors include yellow, pink, burgundy, white and purple. The leaves are narrow and about 1″ long, growing along the stems of the plant.
Spurred snapdragons earned their common name from the spurs that grow from the backs of the blossoms, and from the blossoms which resemble a different kind of snapdragon plant. Spurred snapdragons are also known as toadflax, or simply Linaria. They originated in Morocco, but have naturalized in many places, including California.
They are attractive and are a great addition to your insectary or butterfly garden. They tend to do very well in luring in hummingbirds, butterflies, honeybees and other pollinators as well. Spurred Snapdragon flowers also make beautiful cut flowers for long-lasting bouquets and floral arrangements.
These annual flowering plants grow very well in flower beds, along borders, such as fences, walkways and driveways, and even in large pots and containers. They prefer evenly moist, well-drained soil, but will grow in a variety of conditions. They are often used to naturalize boring, empty fields and make for lovely displays of color in your backyard too.
Spurred snapdragons bloom from spring clear through till fall in cooler climates, but will stop blooming in very hot summers. If you live in a hot climate, having some shade in the afternoons will help them bloom longer, and when things cool down they might start to bloom again. Cut back dead flowers (or cut off blooming flowers to make arrangements) to encourage more to grow.
Quick Facts
- Type: Flower
- Color: Mixture
- Height: 12″ to 15″ Tall
- Width: 6″ to 8″ Spread
- Season: Annual
- Zones: 3 to 10
- Environment: Full sun
Sowing The Seed
Spurred Snapdragons are best established directly outdoors, in the early Spring season. Wait for all danger of frost to pass, to begin working the soil. Remove all unwanted plant life from your sowing area. Scatter the seeds to the surface of the soil, pressing them into the earth lightly. The seeds will require a bit of light to germinate properly, so it is recommended that you do not bury the seeds, but instead surface sow them. Water the seeds immediately after sowing to secure them.
Growing Conditions
Spurred Snapdragon flower seeds & plants will require an area of full sunlight for the majority of the day. They will also need temperatures of at least 70F to thrive. Provide a rich soil that is also well draining. In areas that consist of hard compact soil, try mixing a fluffy compost to improve drainage. Water daily with a light mist setting so that the soil is kept moist, but never soaked.
Germination & Growth
Spurred Snapdragon seeds will typically take anywhere between 7 and 14 days to successfully germinate. The plants will reach a mature height of roughly 12 to 15 inches tall and can be spaced about 8 to 12 inches apart from one another. You can expect blooms throughout the summer months. Their bright and cheery colors will attract an array of beneficial insects to the garden, such as bumblebees, honeybees, butterflies and hummingbirds as well.