Fairy Bouquet Snapdragon (Linaria maroccana) is a charming blend of dainty, jewel-like flowers above delicate, airy foliage. Also known as Baby Snapdragon or Toadflax, this easy-to-grow pollinator is delightful in containers and creates a colorful, fairytale garden effect when planted en masse. A 1934 All-America Selections winner, Fairy Bouquet is equally appealing as a cut flower for arrangements.
These bright, captivating flowers originate from Morocco. The common names Toadflax and Baby Snapdragon stem from the unique appearance of the blooms. The genus name Linaria means "flax-like," a nod to the plant’s growth pattern, which resembles that of flax.
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All Nimble NiteCap Seeds are:
- Heirloom
- Organic
- Non-GMO
- Open Pollinated
- Untreated
- US Grown
- Growing instructions included
- Regular testing is conducted to uphold the highest germination standards, all the while employing appropriate seed storage techniques.
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- NimbleNitecap seeds are packed in eco-friendly, compostable seed packets. Seed packets are printed in-house with vegetable-based inks on biodegradable, recycled materials. (Small plastic bags are infrequently used to prevent the loss of very small seeds.)
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Common Names: Fairy Bouquet Snapdragon, Baby Snapdragon, Toadflax
Latin Name: Linaria maroccana
Type: Flower
Life Cycle: Annual
USDA Zones: 3 - 9
Stratification: Not Required
Germination Ease: Easy
Sunlight: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Moisture: Moderate
Soil: Well-drained, average soil
Height: 6-12 inches
Spread: 4-8 inches
Color: Mix of jewel-toned shades
Bloom Season: Late Spring through Summer
Companion Plants: Alyssum, Marigolds, Petunias (Enhances pollination and provides complementary colors in a garden bed.)
Potential Toxicity: Non-toxic
Climate Adaptability: Adaptable to various climates but thrives in cooler weather
~ Sowing ~
When to Sow Outside:
Direct sow in early spring as soon as the soil can be worked, or in fall in mild climates for blooms through winter and early spring.
When to Start Inside:
Start indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost for early blooms. Transplant outdoors after the last frost when the soil is warm.
Days to Emerge:
10-20 days
Seed Depth:
Surface-sow seeds; press lightly into the soil but do not cover, as light aids germination.
Seed Spacing:
Space seeds 4-6 inches apart.
Hardiness:
Fairy Bouquet Snapdragon is frost-tolerant and blooms best in cooler temperatures.
~ Growing ~
Soil:
Prefers well-drained, average garden soil. Amending with compost is beneficial but not essential.
Watering:
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Regular watering during dry spells promotes prolonged blooming.
Light and Temperature:
Thrives in full sun but will tolerate partial shade. Prefers cooler temperatures for optimal bloom performance.
Maintenance:
Low maintenance. Deadhead spent blooms to extend the flowering period. Regularly remove any faded flowers to encourage more growth.
Container Friendly:
Excellent for container gardening. Use a container with good drainage and space plants appropriately for the best results.
~ Harvesting ~
When to Harvest:
Cut flowers when blooms are fully open for use in arrangements.
How to Harvest:
Cut stems at the base using sharp scissors or garden shears.
Drying and Storing:
These flowers are typically enjoyed fresh; drying is not common due to their delicate nature.
Edible Use:
Not for consumption. Grown for ornamental purposes.
~ Seed Saving ~
Seed Collection:
Allow seed pods to mature and dry on the plant. Collect seeds once pods turn brown and begin to split.
Seed Cleaning:
Gently remove seeds from the dried pods and air-dry them completely.
Seed Storage:
Store seeds in a cool, dry place. Properly stored seeds remain viable for 1-2 years.
~ Additional Information ~
Forage for Pollinators:
Fairy Bouquet Snapdragons attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, supporting garden pollination.
Origin:
Native to Morocco, this variety was brought to prominence for its vibrant colors and unique flower shape.
Nomenclature:
The genus name *Linaria* comes from the Latin word for "flax," due to its flax-like growth habit.
History:
An award-winning selection from 1934, this heirloom flower has remained popular for its delightful aesthetic and ease of growth.
Potential Toxicity:
Non-toxic to humans and animals.
Climate Adaptability:
Best in cooler climates but adaptable to warmer regions with adequate care.
