Snapdragons

Snapdragons (Antirrhinum majus) are a nostalgic, fun flower to have in flower gardens. They are an old-time flower that you may remember in your grandparent’s gardens. Or, you may remember playing with them as children making the “dragon mouth” open and close.

The name snapdragon is derived from its scientific name Antirrhinum, which comes from Greek words anti (like) and rhis (nose or snout), referring to the flower's dragon-like appearance. The actual origin of the snapdragon is unknown, but they are considered native to southern Europe. Colonists brought snapdragons to America during the mid-18th century where they became a popular garden flower. There is record of them being in Thomas Jefferson’s Garden at Monticello. Over the years, the appearance of snapdragons has changed very little.

In the garden, snapdragons do best in full sun or light shade in well-drained soil. They have a fine root system that can be easily damaged by deep cultivation.  A layer of mulch around the plants will help with moisture retention and weeds. They’re versatile – ideal for garden beds, containers, baskets, and garden wall crevices.

Snapdragons can be started by seeds indoors about 10 weeks before the last spring frost, or once the soil is workable, they can be direct sowed into the soil.  Snapdragons are also popular bedding plants found at many garden centers.  

The flowers open from the bottom to the top, providing an extended period of bloom. They come in a variety of colors, from pastel to bright colors, include bi-colors. To keep the flowers looking their best dead head regularly and prune back leggy plants.  Snapdragons prefer cool weather, so may pause blooming during summer heat, resuming once the weather cools down. Snapdragons may reseed, but will not become a nuisance plant. Snapdragons rely on large bumblebees for pollination, as smaller honeybees are unable to open the flowers’ “jaws”.

Snapdragons come in a variety of sizes, ranging from 6 inches to 4 feet tall.  Dwarf varieties have a dense bushy habit producing numerous flower spikes. They can be used as ground cover or border plants in the garden and work great in containers.  Medium sized snapdragons (15 to 30 inches tall) work well in annual or perennial gardens, and as cut flowers.  From 30 to 48 inches tall are the tall varieties. These may need staking or nearby study plants for support. Stake early in the season, and tie the stem to the stake as the stem lengthens with soft cloth.  These are great background plants in the garden and as cut flowers.

Snapdragons make great cut flowers and are perfect for bouquets adding texture, height, dimension and pops of color. When using snapdragons as cut flowers in bouquets, cut the stems early in the morning and place in warm water. Remove the lower leaves to prevent rot. Floral tape or wire can be added to the stems for support if needed.  With proper care, snapdragons can last five to ten days in a vase.

Snapdragons are susceptible to rust. If rust does appear in a planting, it is best to grow snapdragons in another part of the garden the following year. They are also susceptible to mold, fungal leaf spots, downy mildew, wilt and root rots. To help prevent these diseases, plant snapdragons with enough space between them to allow airflow, and water at the base of the plant rather than overhead to reduce humidity and leaf wetness.  Insect pests include aphids, whiteflies and leaf miners. 

Historically believed to ward off witchcraft and aging, snapdragons symbolize grace, strength, and transformation today.

Chris Jacobs

Certified Master Gardener