Linaria Species, Dalmatian Toadflax

The name toadflax is thought to result from a mistake.It seems that the common toadflax may have been used to treat 'buboes' (boils) and ...Read Morewas known as bubinio,meaning 'toad',and from then on the plant became associated with toads.The genus name Linaria refers to the general similarity of the leaves of species in the genus to those of flax(linum sp.).The species name genistifolia reflects the resemblance of the leaves to those of broom (genista sp.).Dalmation toadflax was originally given the scientific name L. dalmatica because it is thought to come from Dalmatia(on the eastern Adriatic coast).

This plant is listed on the North Dakota invasive/troublesome list and this information is being distributed in a guide developed by the ...Read MoreND Weed Control Association and other agencies.

Plant Features
Perennial, up to 3 feet tall
Leaves and stems blue-green
Leaves heart-shaped, thick, waxy, clasp around stem
Bright yellow snapdragon-like flowers with a bright orange throat and long yellow spur
Spreads by creeping roots (rhizomatous) and seed

Distribution
Documented in a few areas. Very aggressive, can grow under most conditions, but prefers dry sandy to gravelly soils
Very difficult to eradicate

Interesting Facts
Gardeners call it butter-and-eggs
Flowers resemble yellow toadflax
A single plant can product up to a half-million seeds per year
Commonly found in cemeteries, originally planted as an ornamental
Widespread invasive in western U.S.

While this is, indeed, quite a prolific plant here in the Inland Northwest, I must admit that I'm rather fond of its blue-green foliage a...Read Morend bright yellow spurred flowers.

It is very easy to identify when it appears in my yard. It is equally easy to pull up to become part of my compost bin before it ever goes to seed.

Looks suspiciously like a common roadside weed here in Ontario too. As it is already common in my area I leave a few plants in the garden...Read More. It's quite attractive for a noxious weed.