Botanical Name: Angelonia angustifolia ‘AngelFlare™ Black’

Common Name: Summer Snapdragon

Hardiness Zone: Annual in Most Climates; Perennial in Warm Regions (USDA Zones 9–11)

Size: 18–24" Tall × 14–18" Spread

Growth Habit: Upright, Well-Branched, Bushy Habit

Sunlight: Thrives in Full Sun

Soil: Prefers Well-Drained Soil; Adapts to Average Garden Soils

Water Needs: Moderate; Drought Tolerant Once Established

Bloom Season: Late Spring through Frost

Fertilizer: Light, Regular Feeding During Active Growth

Features: Jet-Black to Deep Burgundy Foliage, Lavender-Purple Flower Spikes, Heat & Humidity Tolerant, Clean Foliage

Uses: Ideal for Containers, Annual Beds, Mixed Borders, Accent Plantings, and High-Contrast Designs

Patent: ✔ Patented

Propagation: ❌ Propagation Prohibited Without License

See our complete Angelonia Growth & Care Guide for full care details.

More About Angelonia ‘AngelFlare™ Black’

Angelonia ‘AngelFlare™ Black’ is a striking, foliage-driven summer snapdragon prized for its dramatically dark leaves—ranging from deep burgundy to near black—paired with soft lavender-purple flower spikes. This contrast makes it one of the most visually distinctive angelonia varieties available, offering bold color even before the plant comes into full bloom.

Part of the AngelFlare™ series, this variety was bred for strong branching, improved vigor, and exceptional heat tolerance. Unlike many dark-foliage annuals that can fade or weaken in summer, ‘AngelFlare™ Black’ maintains its rich leaf color and clean structure through prolonged heat and humidity.

Why We Like It (Our Trials)

In our trials, ‘AngelFlare™ Black’ has proven to be an excellent performer in full sun, holding its dark foliage color without scorching or thinning. It flowers steadily from late spring until frost and requires very little maintenance beyond regular watering and light feeding.

We especially like its design versatility. It works beautifully as a bold contrast plant in containers, paired with bright whites, pinks, or chartreuse foliage, and it also shines in mixed beds where darker foliage helps anchor brighter summer colors. The foliage stays clean with minimal disease or pest pressure, even in challenging summer conditions.

AngelFlare™ Black vs Other Angelonia

AngelFlare™ Black distinguishes itself primarily through color depth when compared to Alonia™ Big Snow and AngelFlare™ Orchid Pink. Where Big Snow prioritizes height and luminosity, AngelFlare™ Black delivers the darkest, most dramatic blooms in the group. It also differs significantly from the lateral growth of Angel Mist™ Spreading White, which focuses on coverage rather than visual contrast. Compared to the larger-scale presence of Archangel™ Dark Purple, AngelFlare™ Black stays more compact and refined.

For gardeners seeking maximum contrast and a bold, high-impact color statement, AngelFlare™ Black is unmatched among the seven. Its controlled habit, intense pigmentation, and polished look make it ideal for containers and accent plantings where deeper color is more important than size or spread.