Etymology: Linaria: from the Latin linum, "flax," referring to the flax-like leaves of some species
Plants: erect, annual, 4"-20" tall forb, mostly smooth, slender; stems form a short, drooping, basal rosette with erect tips; short taproot
Leaves: mostly opposite and broader on the side stems, mostly alternate and narrower on the main stem
Flowers: light blue to white, 5-parted, 3/8" long, very irregularly-shaped, slender spur at the base; erect upper lip with 2 lobes, lower lip 3 lobed with 2 short white ridges, 4 stamens; inflorescence a cluster (raceme) of stalked flowers at the top of the stem; blooms May-July
Habitat: dry; in sandy soil
Conservation Status: Native

Floristic Rating: Coefficient of Conservatism = 5 Atlas of the Wisconsin Prairie and Savanna Flora: by T.S. Cochrane & H.H. Iltis: habitat, distribution infomation / flowering and fruiting times USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos Dan Tenaglia's The Missouri Flora: Fabulous photographs; detailed descriptions; color and leave arrangement key. David G. Smith's "Delaware Wilflowers": Beautiful photographs; descriptions