Chaparral Snapdragon

Sairocarpus multiflorus (sai-ro-KAR-pus mul-tih-FLOR-us)

Family: Plantaginaceae Unknown Herbaceous

Sierra Snapdragon is an annual or perennial flowering plant that is native to California. The plant is fast-growing, rounded, and bushy. It has tall stems, narrow green leaves, and showy rosy pink flowers. The plant is found in the Central Coast Ranges, the Transverse Ranges, and parts of the Sierra Nevada foothills. It appears in disturbed or recently burned areas on lower mountain slopes. The Sierra Snapdragon has many other common names including Multi-flowered Snapdragon, Sticky Snapdragon, Rose Snapdragon, and Withered Snapdragon. The plant grows in rocky, sandy, clay, and loamy soils. It prefers dry, very well-drained soil and full sun. The plant is reproduced by seeds, but germination is poor. The seeds should be sown uncovered. The flowers attract hummingbirds, butterflies, moths, and bees. it is also deer resistant. The stems are tall, erect, and covered with hairs. The leaves are alternately arranged and racemes of showy pink to red flowers appear at the top of the stems. The Sierra Snapdragon would be a lovely addition as an accent plant in a dry, well-draining, and sunny Cottage Garden or Pollinator Garden. Insects, Diseases, and Other Problems: Pests include aphids and thrips. Mildew is may occur. They are sensitive to salt.

Source: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox ↗ NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, 51 attributes.