This subspecies of snapdragon, described by Boissier and Reuter, is native to the Iberian Peninsula, specifically Portugal and northwestern Spain, where it grows spontaneously on rocks and old walls, in coastal and sublittoral areas, often swept by Atlantic winds. Its distribution area clearly distinguishes it from other subspecies of the group, which are more Mediterranean.
Its habit is remarkably compact and prostrate, with short, branched stems from the base clinging to the rock, giving it a dense cushion-like silhouette, well adapted to windy and rocky conditions. The leaves are small, narrow, dark green, slightly leathery, and glandular to the touch.
The flowers exhibit notable color variability, ranging from pale yellow to cream to bright pink and deep pink-purple, sometimes with a lighter throat. This chromatic diversity is a natural characteristic of the subspecies. They bloom from May to September.
It requires well-drained soil, poor to moderately fertile, in full sun, and tolerates summer drought as well as sea spray. It willingly colonizes rock crevices and walls, reseeding easily.
It is of particular interest to botanical gardens and enthusiasts of authentic wild plants.