Also known as Toadflax · 184 saves
Linaria
Linaria, the genus most gardeners know as toadflax. We track 7 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 7 most-saved Linaria varieties
3 species of Linaria
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Linaria in Sow
Save the Linaria you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Linaria
Whats common across all Linaria varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 7 most-grown of them.
The Linaria year
- DeadheadJune–August86% of varieties
Remove spent flower spikes to encourage continuous blooming.
- Spring CleanupFebruary and March57% of varieties
Cut back old, dead stems to the ground before new growth begins.
- PlantMarch, April, September and October43% of varieties
Plant transplants in well-drained soil during spring or fall.
Do
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms
- Provide full sun for optimal flowering
- Provide full sun for optimal flowering 🌞
- Water regularly, especially during dry spells 💧
- Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during active growth
Avoid
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Avoid overwatering to prevent fungal issues ❌
- Don’t plant in heavy clay soil without amendments
- Refrain from fertilizing late in the season to prevent weak growth
What goes wrong with Linaria
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Sticky residue and distorted leaves | Use insecticidal soap or neem oil |
| Slugs | Chewed leaves and slime trails | Handpick or set slug traps |
| Spider Mites | Fine webbing on foliage | Use horticultural oil or miticides |
| Powdery Mildew | White powdery coating on leaves | Improve air circulation and apply fungicide |
| Powdery mildew | White powdery coating on leaves | Apply organic fungicide and improve air circulation |
| Root Rot | Wilting and browning roots | Ensure well-draining soil and reduce watering |
Making more Linaria
Seed
- Tuck seeds just below soil surface in early spring.
- Keep soil moist and place in full sun.
- Germination occurs in 2-3 weeks.
Cuttings
- Take semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer.
- Dip cuttings in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist, well-draining soil and keep humid for 6 weeks.
Linaria questions
How many types of Linaria are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 7 distinct Linaria varieties. The most popular — ranked by 184 real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Linaria grow in?
Across its varieties, Linaria covers USDA Zones 4–9. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Linaria bloom?
Most Linaria varieties bloom in mid-summer, late spring to late summer, summer, fall. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Linaria should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.