Angelface  Blue Improved (PW image)

Closeup of Angelface Improved White (PW image)

Angelonias, aka summer snapdragons, (Angelonia angustifolia)  hail from Mexico.  Angelonias are top performing summer flowering annuals (USDA zones 9 -11). The AngelFace® series were recently developed by Proven Winners (PW).  Plants are covered with snapdragon-like blooms up and down the floral stems, 18-24 inches high and 12-18 inches wide. Angelface series boast slightly larger green leaves and bigger blooms than the Serena™ series.

Angelonias are heat-loving plants that grow vigorously and bloom best from early summer into fall. Plants should be sited in full sun or light shade and moist, well-drained soil.  Before planting amend the garden soil with lots of compost to boost plant vigor and bloom numbers. Set out bedding plants in spring, 2-3 weeks after the threat of frost temps has past. Angelonias do tolerate temporary soggy soil and moderate drought.

Space individual plants 12 -14 inches apart in cool Northern climates and 18 to 24 inches apart in warm Southern regions. When the young plants reach 6 inches tall, pinch out the tips of the main stems to encourage branching and bushiness. Fertilize at planting time with a slow release product such as Osmocote™ or Nutricote™. Feed the bed or container in mid-summer with a water soluble fertilizer such as Miracle-Gro™ or Jacks™. Mulching with wood chips or yard compost will help conserve soil moisture.  No floral deadheading is necessary.

Angelonias are mostly disease and pest-free as well as deer resistant. Plant them in garden borders or in mixed containers or window boxes. Flowers, according to PW, emit a distinct grape soda-like fragrance. Cut flowers are long lasting.

Angelface_’Cascade Pink’ (PW image)

Angelface Super Angelonia™ is a new series from PW, produce even larger plants and flowers. Under ideal growing conditions, plants grow 20 to 24 inches tall and 1-inch flowers on upright stems. “Supers” differ from the original Angelface series the taller plants and larger flowers are better suited for consumer use as cut flowers with a more upright habit.