The Sunny Annual Flower To Plant In July For A Snapdragon Look

Snapdragons are beautiful flowers full of charm. The problem with these pretty blooms is that they take a long time to grow. If you didn't start them indoors about 10 weeks before your last frost date, you don't get an opportunity to watch them grow, much less if you aren't able to plant them until July. Thankfully, if you want something reminiscent of a snapdragon, that grows fast enough you can still plant it in July, you may want to consider angelonias (Angelonia spp.).

This flower is often called a "summer snapdragon." It blooms from late spring to early fall. You can plant them shortly after all the danger of frost has passed. However, these will bloom pretty much until the temperatures start to drop, which is what makes them one of the best annuals to fill your planters with to attract hummingbirds and other pollinators. And if you missed that window, they're still an excellent option for July. 

Angelonias produce small, orchid-like flowers that bloom on tall stems similar to a snapdragon. There are around 30 species, and they grow natively in parts of South America and Mexico. However, the most common one is Angelonia angustifolia. This species can grow up to 18 inches or taller in optimal conditions, and comes in almost any color, including bicolor. They also have a mild, pleasant scent often compared to grapes or vanilla. 

Care for these flowers is pretty simple. They do not need to be deadheaded or staked, making them rather low-maintenance. They can be a perennial in USDA hardiness zones 9 through 11, but are usually treated like annuals. They grow well alongside calibrachoas, dahlias, and geraniums. The tall stems are also excellent to cut and use as part of a trendy floral arrangement – eclectic arranging – so you can easily incorporate them into your cut flower garden.

However, there is one concern — overwatering. According to Damon Abdi, Louisiana State University AgCenter's assistant professor of landscape horticulture, when speaking to staff on Martha Stewart's website, "A key thing to remember with angelonia is that excessive irrigation will diminish the floral display, leading to more muted flower colors." However, you must strike a balance, as they prefer moist soil, good drainage, and full sun. The plant is also non-toxic, making it a perfect flower for a sunny yard with pets. It does well in urban environments, including in the middle of cities. They can handle drought and dry soil on occasion, though. They are also deer-resistant.

You can use these flowers as a container plant outside and in hanging baskets. It's recommended for borders as well as general and mass garden planting, too. Since you can start it as late as July, angelonia is an excellent plant for filling empty spots in a garden bed.