Linaria canadensis from Vickey, South Carolina

Hi Dr. Hill!

I’ve been trying to identify this little plant for a long time. I’ve searched every site for listings in the USA. It pops up in my front yard in Richland County, sandy soil. I can find no leaves at the bottom – just the stem with these tiny bell like remains. I figure these are what’s leftover. They are anywhere from two to six inches tall. Can you tell me what it is?

Thank you!

Hi Vickey,

these are the fruits of Linaria canadensis, commonly called toadflax, a member of the snapdragon family.  They can be common in some fallow areas making the landscape blue with the thousands of plants. The seeds are tiny, black, and dust-like.

Sincerely,

Dr. Steven Hill, Botanist, SCNPS

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