Prostrate Toadflax (Linaria supina)

Prostrate Toadflax

Linaria supina

It forms soft trailing mats of tiny blooms, a delicate carpet for rock gardens. Low-growing flowering perennial; common name: prostrate toadflax.

Full sun
1/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Prefers full sun to partial shade; tolerates hot, dry sunny conditions without scorching
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Watering Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; highly drought-tolerant once established
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Temperature Hardy to mild frosts down to 5°C; thrives in warm, sunny temperate climates
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Small, linear gray-green leaves arranged oppositely along trailing stems
  • Flower: Snapdragon-like pale purple to pink blooms with a slender spur at the base
  • Stem: Slender, trailing stems that root at nodes to form dense, low mats
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Care Guide

Watering

Water thoroughly when the top 2 cm of soil is dry

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed once monthly. Avoid over-fertilizing, as high nutrient levels can reduce flowering and promote excessive foliage growth

Banana peel tea:Steep 1 chopped banana peel in 1 liter of water for 3 days; dilute 1:20 before applying to soil to avoid nutrient burn
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent flower spikes regularly to encourage extended blooming through early summer
  • Trim overgrown trailing stems in early spring to maintain a compact mat shape
  • Remove damaged or yellowed foliage in late winter to promote healthy new growth
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No listed toxicity to cats; non-hazardous if ingested

Humans: No known toxicity to humans; safe for handling and consumption in small quantities

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Rock garden ground cover, container edge planting, erosion control on sloped sites