Linaria purpurea, commonly called purple toadflax, is an upright, clump-forming perennial that features violet, single-spurred, two-lipped, snapdragon-like flowers from late spring through much of the summer.

Linaria plants may need watering during the growing season. Water when the soil is dry about 5cm below the surface (test this by scratching away a little soil with your finger). Water deeply in the early morning or late afternoon. Avoid watering the leaves of plants to avoid fungal diseases.

Although it is typically found in northern California, it can occur sporadically in many other areas of California, except desert areas and the Big Basin. Infestations often form large colonies, displacing desirable vegetation.

Linaria vulgaris occurs in fields, pastures, roadsides, undisturbed prairies and rangelands. It is native to Europe and was introduced into North America, as an ornamental, in the mid 1600s.