Three-leaved Toadflax (Linaria triphylla)

Three-leaved Toadflax

Linaria triphylla

Delicate spires of snapdragon-like blooms add soft color to rock gardens. Perennial herbaceous flowering plant; common name: Three-leaved Toadflax.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates hot, dry coastal conditions and poor soil
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Watering Water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil is completely dry; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot
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Temperature Hardy to mild frosts down to 5°C; thrives in warm, dry summer temperatures
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Whorled, narrow linear leaves in groups of three, glabrous and blue-green
  • Flower: Snapdragon-like blooms in terminal spires, pale lavender to pink with yellow throats
  • Stem: Slender, upright green stems with branching near the base
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil slightly moist during active growth periods

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed once every 2 months. Use low-strength feed to avoid excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms

Banana peel compost tea:Compost banana peels fully to eliminate odor; dilute 1:20 with water for root drench applications
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent flower spires regularly to encourage extended blooming
  • Cut back stems to basal growth after flowering to promote new foliage growth
  • Remove yellowing or damaged leaves to maintain plant health and airflow
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no reported adverse effects

Humans: No known toxicity to humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental rock garden plant; border edging plant