Blue Toadflax
Linaria canadensis
Family: Scrophulariaceae
What it is like
Linaria canadensis is a ANNUAL/BIENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.
Height (m): 0.6
Where it is found
Dry sterile or sandy soils, often a weed in sandy loams.
N. America - Nova Scotia to Florida, west to Minnesota, Oregon, Texas and California
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 1
The leaves are antihaemorrhoidal, diuretic and laxative. They are applied externally in the treatment of haemorrhoids.
Antihaemorrhoidal: Treats haemorrhoids (piles). This would probably be best added to another heading.
Diuretic: Acts on the kidneys, promoting the flow of urine.
Laxative: Stimulates bowel movements in a fairly gentle manner.
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
A very drought resistant plant once established, it thrives in a poor gravelly soil. Nitrogen-rich soils produce excessive leaf growth at the expense of flowering. Prefers a sunny position.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in situ. An autumn sowing can also be made in areas with mild winters. This sowing will produce larger plants.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Annual/Biennial
Hardiness: 4-8
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Dry, moist