How to Grow Angelonia
Angelonia angustifolia
Angelonia is a heat-loving tender annual for full sun and well-drained soil. Start seed indoors 8 weeks before last frost, or plant out purchased transplants once all cold risk has passed. Self-cleaning blooms need no deadheading — just water during dry spells and feed monthly. Excellent choice for long-season colour in hot summers.
When to Start
Start seeds indoors 8 weeks before your last frost date. Transplant outdoors once night temperatures stay above 15°C and soil has warmed to at least 18°C.
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Growth Stages
Approximate days from start
Care Essentials
- Feed every three to four weeks with a balanced liquid fertiliser once established in the final position. Avoid high-nitrogen feeds which promote leaf growth over flowers.
- Angelonia is self-cleaning — spent flowers drop without deadheading. The main task is to keep the plant in fertile, well-drained soil and full sun. It thrives in heat and tolerates drought once established, making it one of the lowest-maintenance bedding plants for summer.
Growing Conditions
- Min. soil temperature
- 18°C+
- Germination temperature
- 21–24°C
- Sow indoors
- —
- Transplant out
- —
- First harvest
- —
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Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 30 cm |
| Row spacing | 35 cm |
| Sow depth | 0 cm |
| Mature height | 60 cm |
| Mature spread | 30 cm |
Upright bushy habit. Space 30 cm for good airflow. Closer spacing in containers acceptable.
Pests & Diseases
Pest Aphids
Identification: Clusters of small insects on shoot tips. Sticky honeydew and distorted new growth.
- Blast off with a strong jet of water
- Spray with insecticidal soap
- Encourage ladybirds and lacewings
- Spray with a pyrethrin-based insecticide if infestations persist
Pest Spider Mites
Identification: Fine webbing on leaves, pale stippling on foliage. More common in hot, dry conditions.
- Mist foliage to raise humidity
- Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil
- Apply a miticide if infestation is severe
Disease Root Rot
Symptoms: Wilting despite moist soil, yellowing leaves, blackened stem base.
Treatment: Remove and discard affected plants. Improve drainage before replanting.
Prevention: Always plant in well-drained soil. Avoid overwatering, especially in cool weather.
Growing Conditions
| Min. soil temperature | 18°C |
| Germination temperature | 21–24°C |
| Base growth temperature | 15°C |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How far apart should I plant Angelonia?
- Plant Angelonia 30cm apart with 35cm between rows.
- When does Angelonia flower?
- Angelonia typically flowers approximately 65 days after transplanting.
- Is Angelonia frost hardy?
- Angelonia is classified as Tender.
