Angelonia: The Colorful, Carefree Bloom Machine Your Garden Needs
If you’re on the hunt for a flower that blooms nonstop, stands up to heat, and asks very little in return, Angelonia is calling your name.
Sometimes called “summer snapdragon†(though it isn’t a true snapdragon), Angelonia is a sun-loving annual that blooms from late spring all the way through the first frost. With its upright, spiky flower clusters and lance-shaped leaves, it brings not only vibrant color to your beds and containers but also a whole lot of texture and elegance.
But here’s the best part: it’s easy. Really easy. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just beginning your journey into the dirt, Angelonia makes you look like a pro. Let’s dig into everything you need to know—from planting to care to those glorious blooms.
🌞 Why Gardeners Love Angelonia
There’s a reason Angelonia is one of the top picks for summer gardens across the South and beyond. Actually, there are several.
1. Long-Lasting Blooms
Angelonia doesn’t just flower for a week or two. It puts on a continuous show from spring through fall, especially if you give it just a touch of love along the way.
2. Tough as Nails
Hot? Humid? Dry? No problem. Angelonia thrives in the kind of weather that makes other plants sulk.
3. Low Maintenance
No deadheading necessary (unless you want a super-polished look). It’s self-cleaning, meaning the blooms drop off on their own.
4. Pollinator-Friendly
Bees and butterflies love it. You’ll have a buzzing, fluttering garden community in no time.
5. Great in Containers or the Ground
Whether you want to fill a garden bed or perk up a patio pot, Angelonia’s got you covered.
When it comes to planting angelonia, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, choose a location that receives full sun for at least six hours per day. Angelonia does not tolerate shade well, and will quickly become leggy and produce fewer flowers if not given enough sunlight. Next, make sure the soil you select is well-draining. Angelonia does not like wet feet, and will quickly succumb to root rot if the soil is too moist. Finally, consider using a raised bed or container for your angelonia plants. This will help to ensure adequate drainage and prevent waterlogging.
After planting, water your angelonia generously and mulch around the base of the plants to help retain moisture. Angelonia does not require a lot of extra water once established, but will benefit from occasional deep watering during extended periods of dry weather.
Now that your angelonia plants are in the ground, it is time to sit back and enjoy the show! These beautiful flowers will bloom from spring until fall, adding color and life to your garden all season long. To keep your plants looking their best, deadhead spent blooms regularly and fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer. With just a little bit of basic care, your angelonia plants will thrive and provide you with years of enjoyment.