Size Matters:
Choosing the Right Angelonia Plant for Your Landscape

Angelonia plants, also known as summer snapdragons, are a popular choice for gardens and landscapes due to their bright colors, long bloom time, and low maintenance requirements. However, with several varieties of angelonia available in different sizes, it can be challenging to choose the right one for your landscape. In this article, we’ll discuss the different types of angelonia plants and how to select the right one for your garden.

Types of Angelonia Plants

There are three main types of angelonia plants:

1. Angelonia Angustifolia: This type of angelonia produces tall spikes of flowers in shades of purple, pink, and white. It grows up to 2-3 feet tall and is ideal for adding height to a garden bed.

2. Angelonia Serena: The Serena series is a dwarf version of the Angustifolia type, growing up to 12-18 inches tall. It produces compact spikes of flowers in shades of blue, pink, purple, and white.

3. Angelonia Archangel: This is the largest type of angelonia, growing up to 2-3 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide. It produces large spikes of flowers in shades of pink, purple, and white.

Choosing the Right Size

When selecting an angelonia plant for your landscape, consider the following factors:

• Available Space: Consider the size of your garden bed or container when selecting an angelonia plant. If you have limited space, a dwarf variety such as Serena may be a better fit.

• Purpose: Determine what role you want the angelonia plant to play in your garden design. If you want it to add height and drama to your landscape design or create a focal point, a taller variety like Angustifolia or Archangel may be more suitable.

• Maintenance: Consider how much time and effort you’re willing to invest in maintaining your plants. Taller varieties may require staking or pruning to keep them upright and looking their best.

Planting Tips

Once you’ve selected the right size of angelonia for your landscape, follow these planting tips:

• Location: Angelonia plants prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day.

• Soil: Angelonia plants prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend your soil with compost or other organic material before planting.

• Watering: Angelonia plants are drought-tolerant once established but require consistent moisture during their first few weeks after planting.

• Fertilizing: Apply a slow-release fertilizer at planting time and again every 4-6 weeks throughout the growing season.

Conclusion

Angelonia plants are an excellent choice for adding color and interest to your garden or landscape design. By choosing the right size based on available space, purpose, and maintenance requirements, you can ensure that your angelonia plants thrive and provide lasting beauty throughout the growing season.

FAQ

Q: Can I grow angelonia in containers?

A: Yes! Angelonia plants are well-suited for container gardening as long as they receive proper care and maintenance.

Q: How often should I water my angelonia plants?

A: Water your angelonia plants deeply once or twice per week during dry weather. Be sure not to overwater, as this can cause root rot.

Q: Do I need to deadhead my angelonia plants?

A: Deadheading (removing spent flowers) can encourage more blooms on some varieties of angelonia. However, it is not necessary for plant health or performance.

Q: When is the best time to plant angelonia?

A: Plant angelonia outdoors after all danger of frost has passed in your area. This is typically in late spring or early summer depending on your location.