Linaria maroccana
Linaria maroccana Hook.f.
Linaria maroccana is a delightful Moroccan native annual producing masses of tiny, two-lipped snapdragon-like flowers in vivid mixtures of purple, pink, red, yellow, and white on slender, airy stems. It symbolizes playfulness, vivacity, and the exuberant spirit of small but beautiful things.
Plantaginaceae (Plantain family)
April to June (spring to early summer); does not tolerate heat and finishes quickly in summer
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: torenia fournieris and ranunculuss also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Annual toadflax has been grown in English cottage gardens for centuries and remains one of the most cheerful spring-flowering annuals available, beloved for the way its tiny, intricately structured flowers recall miniature snapdragons in a rainbow of colors. The genus name Linaria comes from Linum (flax), for the flax-like foliage. The species name maroccana denotes its Moroccan origin, making it one of the few ornamental garden plants named directly for the country of Morocco. Popular seed mixes such as "Fairy Bouquet" and "Northern Lights" have introduced gardeners worldwide to its charms, and its ease of culture and generous self-seeding have made it a quiet fixture in many informal gardens.Shop Our Floral Collection
Transform your space with our curated selection of designer floral throw pillows
Visit Full StoreBotanical Information
Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun; heat intolerant and humidity intolerant; best in cool, sunny conditions
Water
Low to moderate; drought tolerant once established; does not tolerate waterlogging or excessive summer humidity
Soil
Sandy, Light, Well-drained, Low to moderate fertility, pH 6.0–7.5
Expert Growing Tips
Sow seeds directly in early spring as soon as the soil can be worked, or in fall in mild-winter climates
Scatter seeds on the soil surface; they need light to germinate and should not be covered
Thin seedlings to 4–6 inches apart for best flowering performance
Plants fade quickly in heat; succession sow every 3 weeks in spring for a longer display
Allow plants to self-seed for a naturalized planting that returns each year
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Wildflower and cottage garden seed mixes
- Spring bedding and border edging
- Rock garden and gravel garden plantings
- Container and window box displays
- Cut flower and filler material for arrangements
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Linaria maroccana
What does Linaria maroccana symbolize?
Moroccan toadflax symbolizes playfulness, vivacity, and the joy of small but beautiful things. Its tiny, intricately structured flowers in a rainbow of colors represent cheerful energy, charm, and wit.
Is Linaria maroccana easy to grow?
Yes, it is very easy to grow. Scatter seeds on the soil surface in early spring or fall, provide full sun and well-drained soil, and keep it cool. It germinates quickly and blooms abundantly with minimal care.
Why does Linaria maroccana stop blooming in summer?
It is a cool-season annual that fades quickly when temperatures rise. It performs best in the cool conditions of spring and early summer. Sowing in succession every few weeks in spring extends the display, and a fall sowing in mild climates may provide additional blooms.
What is the difference between Linaria maroccana and Linaria vulgaris?
Linaria maroccana is an annual from Morocco, smaller in stature and producing flowers in a much wider range of colors. Linaria vulgaris (Butter and Eggs) is a perennial native to Eurasia that flowers almost exclusively in yellow and orange and can spread aggressively.
Does Linaria maroccana self-seed?
Yes, it self-seeds generously in conditions it likes. In well-drained soil in a sunny position, established plantings will naturalize and return each year from self-sown seedlings, reducing or eliminating the need for replanting.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
Share This Flower
Explore More Beautiful Flowers
Discover other flowers with similar meanings, characteristics, or cultural significance.
Torenia Fournieri
Torenia fournieri
Torenia fournieri, the Wishbone Flower, is a compact tropical annual celebrated for its bicolored, trumpet-shaped blooms that thrive in shade. Named for its wishbone-shaped stamens, it symbolizes happiness, good luck, and charm -- and is one of the finest flowering plants for shady gardens and containers.
Ranunculus
Ranunculus asiaticus (Persian buttercup) and other Ranunculus spp.
Ranunculus are prized for their layered, rose-like blooms in vivid colors. Often grown from corms, they symbolize charm, radiant beauty, and attraction.
Asarina
Asarina scandens (syn. Maurandya scandens)
Asarina scandens, known as Climbing Snapdragon, is a delicate yet vigorous tender perennial vine producing masses of tubular, snapdragon-like flowers. Perfect for trellises and containers, it blooms profusely from summer to frost.