Purple angelonia, also known as Angelonia angustifolia, is indeed deer resistant. These elegant and tough plants are not preferred by deer, making them a great addition to any landscape or garden border. Whether you are looking to add color to your flower beds or enhance the beauty of your container gardens, purple angelonia can provide long-lasting blooms with very little maintenance.
In my personal experience, I have found that deer tend to avoid plants with a strong scent or taste. Purple angelonia, with its vibrant flowers and unique fragrance, does not seem to appeal to deer. This makes it a valuable asset in areas where deer browsing is a common problem.
The deer resistance of purple angelonia can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the plant has a slightly bitter taste that deer find unappealing. Additionally, the leaves of angelonia are slightly fuzzy, which can act as a deterrent for deer. These characteristics make purple angelonia a less desirable option for deer grazing.
Furthermore, angelonia is not only deer resistant but also rabbit resistant. This is beneficial for those dealing with both deer and rabbit damage in their gardens. By incorporating purple angelonia into your landscape, you can enjoy its beautiful blooms without the worry of these common garden pests.
To effectively incorporate purple angelonia into your landscape, consider the following tips:
1. Plant in well-draining soil: Purple angelonia prefers well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Ensure that the soil is loose and fertile, allowing for proper water drainage.
2. Provide adequate sunlight: Angelonia thrives in full sun to partial shade. Plant it in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day for optimal growth and blooming.
3. Water consistently: While angelonia is drought-tolerant once established, it still requires regular watering during the initial growth period. Water deeply and allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings to promote healthy root development.
4. Deadhead spent blooms: To encourage continuous blooming, remove faded flowers by deadheading. This will redirect the plant’s energy towards producing new blooms, prolonging the overall flowering period.
5. Consider companion planting: Purple angelonia pairs well with other deer-resistant plants such as lavender, salvia, and yarrow. By incorporating these plants into your garden, you can create a beautiful and pest-resistant landscape.
Purple angelonia is indeed deer resistant. Its elegant appearance and tough nature make it a valuable addition to any landscape or garden. By incorporating this plant into your outdoor space, you can enjoy long-lasting color with minimal maintenance while deterring deer and rabbits from damaging your garden.
