Back

Click here to search for a different flower

[?]

Open the Advanced Search

Small Toadflax

Chaenorhinum minus

Please keep in mind that it is illegal to uproot a plant without the landowner's consent and care should be taken at all times not to damage wild plants. Wild plants should never be picked for pleasure and some plants are protected by law.
For more information please download the BSBI Code of Conduct PDF document.

Plant Profile
Similar Species
Other Information
Distribution Map

Flowering Months:

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Order:

Lamiales

Family:

Veronicaceae (Speedwell)

Also in this family:

Alpine Speedwell, American Speedwell, Blue Water Speedwell, Breckland Speedwell, Brooklime, Common Field Speedwell, Common Toadflax, Fingered Speedwell, French Speedwell, Garden Speedwell, Germander Speedwell, Heath Speedwell, Ivy-leaved Speedwell, Ivy-leaved Toadflax, Malling Toadflax, Pale Toadflax, Pink Water Speedwell, Prostrate Toadflax, Purple Toadflax, Rock Speedwell, Round-leaved Fluellen, Sand Toadflax, Sharp-leaved Fluellen, Snapdragon, Spiked Speedwell, Spring Speedwell, Thyme-leaved Speedwell, Wall Speedwell, Wood Speedwell

Type:

Flower

Life Cycle:

Annual

Maximum Size:

25 centimetres tall

Habitats:

Fields, gardens, grassland, meadows, roadsides, rocky places, sand dunes, seaside, walls, wasteland, woodland.

Flower:

Purple, 5 petals

The flowers of Small Toadflax exhibit delicate and tubular structures. They come in an array of colours, including white, pink, purple, and yellow. The tubular shape is reminiscent of miniature snapdragons, with a distinct upper lip and lower lip, contributing to its overall unique appearance. These flowers are relatively small in size, in line with the plant's overall stature, typically reaching heights of 15-30 cm. The charming and intricate floral display of Small Toadflax adds a touch of natural beauty to various habitats, from grasslands and meadows to roadsides and urban green spaces in the United Kingdom.

Fruit:

The fruit is a capsule that develops after the flowering stage. These capsules are small and contain seeds. When mature, the capsules split open, facilitating the dispersal of seeds. This reproductive strategy allows Small Toadflax to spread and establish itself in different habitats. The capsules contribute to the plant's life cycle, ensuring the continuation of this species in the diverse environments it inhabits across the United Kingdom.

Leaves:

The leaves are typically linear or lance-shaped. They are arranged alternately along the stem of the plant. These leaves contribute to the overall slender and graceful appearance of the plant. Their structure aids in capturing sunlight for photosynthesis and complements the plant's overall adaptability to different environments. The foliage of Small Toadflax plays a role in its ecological functions and serves as an important feature in identifying this species in various habitats across the United Kingdom.

Aroma:

Small Toadflax is not typically known for having a distinct or notable aroma. Unlike some plants that are cultivated for their fragrance, Small Toadflax is more valued for its petite, tubular flowers and delicate appearance rather than any significant scent. The primary allure of Small Toadflax lies in its visual appeal rather than aromatic qualities. As always, individual perceptions of aroma can vary, and personal experiences may differ.

Other Names:

Dwarf Snapdragon, Lesser Toadflax, Little Toadflax.

Frequency (UK):

Common

Ivy-leaved Toadflax

Malling Toadflax

Purple Toadflax

Summary

Chaenorhinum minus, also known as Dwarf Snapdragon or Little Toadflax, is a perennial flowering plant in the Plantaginaceae family. It is native to Europe and western Asia, and is often grown as an ornamental plant in rock gardens, borders, or as a groundcover. The plant has small, linear leaves and produces small, pink, purple or white flowers in the spring and summer. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade, and can be propagated by seed or division. It's hardy to USDA Zone 4.

Blog

Small Toadflax, also known by its scientific name Chaenorhinum minus, is a delicate and beautiful flowering plant that belongs to the plant family Plantaginaceae. This plant is native to Europe and can be found growing wild in many different regions, including the Mediterranean, the British Isles, and parts of Asia.

The Small Toadflax plant has slender stems that can grow up to 60 cm in height and are covered in small, linear leaves. The leaves are typically 1-2 cm long and are arranged in a spiral pattern along the stem. In the summer months, the plant produces clusters of tiny, brightly colored flowers that are typically blue or violet in color. These flowers are extremely attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies, and the plant is an important source of nectar and food for these insects.

In terms of cultivation, Small Toadflax is a relatively easy plant to care for and is well-suited to growing in a variety of different soils and conditions. It can be grown in full sun or partial shade and is tolerant of dry conditions, making it an ideal choice for gardeners who are looking for a low-maintenance plant. The plant is also a popular choice for use in rock gardens, as its compact size and delicate flowers make it an excellent addition to this type of landscape.

Another benefit of Small Toadflax is its ability to attract beneficial insects to the garden. As mentioned earlier, the plant is an important source of nectar and food for pollinators such as bees and butterflies, which play a vital role in maintaining a healthy ecosystem and promoting the growth of other plants in the garden. In addition, the plant is also a favorite of ladybugs, which feed on aphids and other garden pests, helping to control these insects and keep the garden healthy.

Despite its delicate appearance, Small Toadflax is a tough and resilient plant that can withstand a wide range of conditions. It is an excellent choice for gardeners who are looking for a plant that is both beautiful and practical, and it can be an invaluable addition to any garden or landscape. Whether you are an experienced gardener or a beginner, this plant is sure to be a favorite in your garden for years to come.

Small Toadflax is a beautiful and versatile flowering plant that is well-suited to growing in a variety of conditions. Its delicate flowers, attractive appearance, and ability to attract beneficial insects make it an ideal choice for gardeners and nature enthusiasts alike.

In addition to its ornamental value, Small Toadflax has a number of other uses and benefits. For example, the plant has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat a variety of conditions, including digestive disorders, skin irritations, and respiratory problems.

The leaves and stems of the plant contain compounds that have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, making them useful in the treatment of wounds and other skin conditions. In addition, the plant is also believed to have mild sedative and anxiolytic effects, making it useful for the treatment of anxiety and insomnia.

Small Toadflax is also a valuable plant for wildlife, providing food and habitat for a range of species. The nectar from its flowers is a favorite of bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, while the seeds are eaten by birds and small mammals. In addition, the plant provides cover and nesting sites for a variety of insects and other small creatures, helping to support biodiversity in the ecosystem.

In terms of cultivation, Small Toadflax is easy to grow from seed, and it can be propagated by division or cuttings. The plant prefers well-drained soils and can be grown in a variety of conditions, including full sun and partial shade. However, it is important to ensure that the plant is not overwatered, as it is susceptible to root rot in waterlogged soils.

Overall, Small Toadflax is a beautiful, versatile, and valuable plant that deserves a place in every garden. Whether you are looking for a low-maintenance flowering plant, a source of food and habitat for wildlife, or a plant with traditional medicinal uses, this plant has a lot to offer.

Small Toadflax is also a popular plant for use in rock gardens, wildflower meadows, and other naturalistic plantings. Its compact size and delicate blue or violet flowers make it an excellent choice for filling in small spaces and adding color and interest to the garden.

In addition to its ornamental value, Small Toadflax is also a valuable plant for wildlife. As previously mentioned, the nectar from its flowers is an important source of food for pollinators such as bees and butterflies, while the seeds are eaten by birds and small mammals.

In terms of maintenance, Small Toadflax is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Once established, the plant is drought-tolerant and can thrive with minimal watering. It is also resistant to pests and diseases, making it an ideal choice for gardeners who are looking for a plant that requires minimal maintenance.

In conclusion, Small Toadflax is a beautiful, versatile, and valuable plant that deserves a place in every garden. Whether you are looking for a low-maintenance flowering plant, a source of food and habitat for wildlife, or a plant with traditional medicinal uses, this plant has a lot to offer.

20 Small Toadflax Facts

Common Name: Small Toadflax
Alternative Scientific Name: Chaenorhinum minus
Genus Change: Formerly classified as Linaria minor, it is now categorized under Chaenorhinum.
Taxonomic Classification: It belongs to the family Plantaginaceae.
Biological Classification: Chaenorhinum minus is a flowering plant.
Origin: Native to Europe, it has become naturalized in various regions.
Ecological Role: It plays a role in local ecosystems by providing habitat and sustenance for pollinators.
Naturalization Patterns: The species has successfully established itself outside its native range.
Conservation Considerations: Conservation efforts may vary depending on its impact on local ecosystems.
Preferred Growing Conditions: Chaenorhinum minus thrives in well-drained soils and can tolerate diverse environmental conditions.
Invasiveness: In some areas, it may exhibit invasive tendencies due to its adaptability and rapid spread.
Botanical Characteristics: The plant displays tubular flowers with distinct features based on its Chaenorhinum genus.
Cultural Significance: Small Toadflax may have cultural or historical significance in certain regions.
Ethnobotanical Uses: Traditionally, it may have been used for various purposes in folk medicine or other cultural practices.
Flowering Season: The blooming period typically occurs from late spring to early autumn.
Plant Height: Chaenorhinum minus generally grows to a height of 15-30 cm.
Leaf Structure: The leaves are linear or lance-shaped, arranged alternately along the stem.
Pollination Partners: Bees and other pollinators are attracted to the flowers of Chaenorhinum minus.
Seed Dispersal Mechanism: The plant produces capsules that burst open, facilitating seed dispersal.
Gardening Applications: Some gardeners cultivate Small Toadflax for its ornamental value and ability to attract beneficial insects.