How to Grow Angelface Dark Purple
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Angelface Dark Purple
Angelonia angustifolia 'Angelface Dark Purple'
flowerAngelface Dark Purple is a compact, heat-loving annual flower cultivar with deep purple blooms that resemble snapdragons. It produces abundant spikes of flowers from summer through fall and is extremely tolerant of heat, humidity, and drought once established. This variety is perfect for containers, borders, and landscapes where a reliable source of color is needed.
When should you plant Angelface Dark Purple in your zone?
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Example Angelface Dark Purple timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Angelface Dark Purple
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Angelface Dark Purple blooms
Around Jun 6≈ 50 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Angelface Dark Purple dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 2-11 as an annual; perennial in zones 10-11
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Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny seedlings with oval cotyledons emerge; true leaves are narrow and lance-shaped
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright light and 70-75°F temperatures. Thin seedlings to proper spacing once they have 2-3 true leaves.
Vegetative Growth
3-4 weeksPlant develops bushy foliage with numerous narrow green leaves; stem thickens and branches emerge
Pinch back growing tips at 4-6 inches tall to encourage bushier growth and more flower spikes. Continue regular watering and ensure full sun exposure.
Flowering Initiation
1-2 weeksFlower buds form at stem tips; characteristic purple flower spikes begin to emerge
Once flowering begins, reduce nitrogen fertilizer to avoid excessive foliage at expense of blooms. Switch to balanced or slightly higher phosphorus fertilizer (e.g., 5-10-10).
Bloom & Continuous Flowering
12+ weeks until frostDense spikes of deep purple snapdragon-like flowers cover the plant; flowers open progressively from bottom to top on each spike
Deadhead spent flower spikes to encourage continuous blooming. Water during dry spells. Fertilize every 2-3 weeks with diluted balanced fertilizer. Plants are extremely heat and drought tolerant at this stage.
Senescence (End of Season)
Variable; until first frostFlowering slows as temperatures drop in fall and days shorten; foliage may become less vibrant
Continue deadheading to extend bloom season. In frost-prone areas, plants will decline and die after first hard freeze. In warm zones (10-11), plants may persist and regrow in spring.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Common Pests
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Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; encourage beneficial insects; use yellow sticky traps for monitoring
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Increase humidity; spray with water to dislodge; use miticide or neem oil if infestation is severe
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Ensure good air circulation; avoid overhead watering; spray with sulfur or fungicide if necessary; remove affected leaves
Uses
Container & Garden Color
OrnamentalIdeal for filling containers, hanging baskets, flower borders, and garden beds with continuous deep purple color. Complements silver-foliaged plants and creates stunning color combinations. [source]
Pollinator Attraction
WildlifeAttracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making it valuable for pollinator gardens. The abundant nectar-rich flowers support beneficial insect populations. [source]
Heat & Drought Tolerance
HouseholdExceptionally tolerant of heat, humidity, and drought once established, making it ideal for difficult growing conditions and low-maintenance landscapes. Requires minimal water once past the establishment phase. [source]
Cut Flower Arrangements
CraftLong-lasting purple flower spikes are excellent for fresh cut flower bouquets and arrangements. Stems last 7-10 days in water with proper conditioning. [source]
Harvest Tips
Angelface Dark Purple is grown for ornamental blooms rather than harvest. Deadhead (pinch off) spent flower spikes regularly to promote continuous blooming throughout the season. Cut fresh flowers for arrangements by removing stems just above a set of leaves.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Angelonia is sometimes called 'summer snapdragon' due to its similar flower structure, though it is not closely related to true snapdragons (Antirrhinum).
- 🌱 Angelface Dark Purple is one of several Angelface cultivars bred specifically for the home garden; the series is known for compact growth and prolific blooming with minimal deadheading required.
- 🌱 This variety thrives in hot, humid conditions that stress many other ornamental flowers, making it an excellent choice for southern gardens and tropical climates.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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