Understanding the Serena Plant
The ‘Serena’ series belongs to the Angelonia angustifolia species, commonly known as Summer Snapdragon, and is a popular choice among gardeners for its continuous bloom and low maintenance. This specific series has gained widespread appeal due to its robustness and consistent performance throughout the warmer months. Gardeners often seek out ‘Serena’ for its reliable display of color and its ability to thrive in various conditions.
‘Serena’ Angelonia plants typically grow to a height of 10 to 18 inches with a spread of about 12 to 14 inches, forming an upright, bushy mound. Their flowers resemble small snapdragons, densely packed on tall spikes, and are available in a range of colors including white, pink, purple, and blue. The plant’s overall growth habit makes it suitable for both mass plantings and container displays, providing a strong vertical accent.
While Angelonia angustifolia is botanically classified as a tender perennial, it is most widely cultivated as an annual in climates outside of USDA Hardiness Zones 9 through 11. In these warmer zones, the plant can survive the winter and return the following year, but in regions with colder winters, it completes its life cycle within a single growing season. Gardeners in temperate areas typically replant ‘Serena’ Angelonia each spring to ensure a vibrant summer display.
Cultivating and Caring for Serena Plants
‘Serena’ Angelonia thrives in locations that receive full sun, meaning at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily for good flowering. When preparing the planting site, ensure the soil is well-draining, as these plants do not tolerate soggy conditions. Soil should be moderately fertile with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0).
Consistent watering is beneficial for ‘Serena’ plants, especially during prolonged dry periods or when grown in containers, where soil dries out more quickly. Water deeply when the top inch or two of soil feels dry to the touch, allowing the excess water to drain away. Signs of inadequate watering can include wilting, while overwatering may lead to yellowing leaves and root issues.
Fertilization supports vigorous growth and abundant blooms throughout the season. A balanced, slow-release granular fertilizer applied at planting time can provide nutrients for several weeks. Alternatively, a liquid feed administered every two to four weeks at half strength can also be effective. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can promote leafy growth at the expense of flower production.
‘Serena’ Angelonia resists many common garden pests and diseases. Aphids may appear but can be managed with a strong spray of water or insecticidal soap. Ensuring good air circulation around the plants and avoiding overhead watering helps prevent fungal problems like powdery mildew. Regular inspection allows for early detection.
Enhancing Your Garden with Serena Plants
‘Serena’ Angelonia offers versatility in garden design, making it suitable for various applications. Its upright growth and continuous bloom add vertical interest to mixed containers and hanging baskets. They also perform well when planted in garden borders, creating visual impact with their dense flower spikes.
These plants can be massed in garden beds to create a sea of color, providing a vibrant and uniform display. Their long-lasting blooms also make them suitable as cut flowers, bringing their elegant form and color indoors.
Maintenance for ‘Serena’ Angelonia is minimal. Many ‘Serena’ varieties are self-cleaning, meaning they do not require deadheading to encourage new blooms, as spent flowers simply fade away. Light pruning can be performed if the plants become leggy or to encourage a bushier growth habit.