Antirrhinum - Snap Dragon

Name: Snapdragon, dragon flower, Antirrhinum Majus.

Height: tall 100-120cm; intermediate 30-60cm; dwarf 15-25cm.

Plant type: Short-lived perennials, often grown as annuals.

Climate: All climate zones.

Soil: Moist, well-drained and enriched with plenty of organic matter.

Position: Full sun.

Foliage: Small, lance-shaped.

Feeding: Fertilize regularly with a liquid food for flowering plants.

Watering: Water regularly.

Characteristics of Snapdragons

Snapdragons are flowering plants that form a low, neat mound of small lance-like foliage with upright flower spikes. Their vibrant, two-lipped tubular blooms are available in single or bi-coloured forms in shades of white, yellow, pink, orange, red and purple. Their name is derived from the shape of the flower, which resembles a dragon’s head that ‘snaps’ open when pinched.

Uses for Snapdragons

Snapdragons look wonderful massed in garden beds,  pots or hanging baskets (dwarf forms). Tall varieties make fabulous border plants and great cut flowers for vases and bouquets. The edible flowers, which have a slightly bitter flavour, are perfect for decorating cakes and desserts, or as a colourful garnish on food platters.

Caring for snapdragons

Once seedlings reach 10cm tall, pinch out the tops to encourage lateral growth and bushier plants. Regularly trim spent flowers to keep them looking tidy and to encourage more blooms.

If you like this, then try

Angelonia: this floriferous annual or perennial is tolerant of heat, humidity and drought-like conditions.

Cosmos: a beautiful flowering annual with long, slender stems and vibrant blooms.

Billy buttons: an Australian native with lovely, golden-yellow, pompom-like flowers.