Angelonia is moisture-tolerant and suitable for flowerbeds and raised flower platforms; some people also grow it as an aquatic plant.

Angelonia

Angelonia (Angelonia salicariifolia, also known as the Scrophulariaceae angelonia) is a perennial herbaceous flower. The plant grows about 30 ~ 70 cm tall, with lipped petals, the upper petals divided into four lobes. It blooms year-round, most profusely in spring, summer and autumn. Flower colors include purple, light purple, pink-purple, white and so on.

Capsule fruit, seeds tiny; it is rarely seen setting fruit.

Morphological characteristics

Perennial herb. There are two types: "cutting-propagated type" and "seed-propagated type." The former grows 50-70 cm tall; the latter grows 25-30 cm tall. The whole plant is densely covered with fine hairs.

2. The branches are slightly sticky, and the leaves and stems bear oil glands with a scent resembling toothpaste powder. The leaves are narrowly elongated, opposite, with shallow notches along the margins and prominent veins.

3. The flowers are axillary, with lipped petals, and a long flowering period; they bloom year-round, most profusely in spring, summer and autumn. Colors include purple, light purple, pink, white and so on.

4. The "cutting-propagated type" does not set seed; only the "seed-propagated type" produces seed.

Growing environment

Propagation is by sowing or cuttings, with a very high survival rate; spring to autumn is the suitable period. It likes high temperatures and humidity. The growing site is best in full sun, though light shade is also acceptable. It is not fussy about soil, as long as drainage is good.

Distribution range

Native to South America.

Main value

It can be used for flowerbeds and raised flower platforms; because it is moisture-tolerant, some people also grow it as an aquatic plant.

2. Angelonia can also be used in tea drinks, generally to enhance the color of the tea infusion.