Angelonia:
A Heat-Loving Favorite for South Central Texas Gardens
by CMG Kathleen S.
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Angelonia is an excellent choice for gardeners in South Central Texas because it thrives in heat and humidity. Once established, these plants are drought tolerant, making them a dependable addition to landscapes during long, hot summers.
Angelonia grows best in well-drained soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.2, although it is adaptable to a variety of soil types. A layer of mulch helps conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weeds.
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Often called the summer snapdragon, Angelonia produces upright flower spikes that resemble the blooms of snapdragons. Some gardeners even say the individual flowers resemble the open mouth of a dragon. The fragrant blooms have a sweet scent that is often compared to grape soda and are available in shades of pink, purple, and white. Plants typically reach 12 to 18 inches in height and bloom continuously from late spring through fall. Because the flower spikes remain upright, they do not trail over the edges of containers or walls. For the best flowering, provide six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day.
Angelonia is a low-maintenance plant. Deadheading is unnecessary because the plants continue producing new flowers throughout the growing season. Pinching the center growth occasionally encourages a fuller, bushier plant. Angelonia is most easily propagated from stem cuttings, as seeds can be difficult to find.
Aphids are the most common pest. Spider mites and whiteflies can occasionally appear, especially during hot, dry weather. Fortunately, serious pest problems are uncommon.
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With its tall, upright blooms, Angelonia is an excellent choice for borders, containers, mass plantings, or as a striking specimen plant. It also makes a beautiful addition to cottage gardens. Angelonia attracts butterflies and bees and is highly deer resistant. Good companion plants include nasturtiums, dusty miller, geraniums, and marigolds.
Angelonia belongs to the Plantaginaceae family. Several species and cultivars are available, but the most common is Angelonia angustifolia. The Angelonia angustifolia Serena Series™ is recognized as a Texas Superstar® selection and is the only Angelonia series commonly grown from seed. Angelonia is a perennial in USDA Hardiness Zones 9 through 11 and is grown as an annual in colder regions. An added benefit for families is that Angelonia is considered non-toxic to both pets and children.
References: bhg.com, gardenia.net, thespruce.com and texassuperstar.com