The genus Angelonia includes about 30 species, some small shrubs and others perennials, but all tender in our area. Angelonia angustifolia, our favorite species, is native to Mexico and a charming sub-shrub (meaning it gets bushy and full but seldom reaches much above 2ft). Also known as Summer Snapdragon, its charm is a long-running display of early- to late-summer flowers that are small, gracefully lipped, and very abundant toward the end of the sturdy stems. Perennial in Zones 9-10.

Angelonia grows well in full sun in average garden soil and is tolerant of dry conditions, but not wet ones. Cut off spent flower stalks to encourage rebloom. Heat tolerant and generally undemanding.

For information on planting and care of annuals, click here.