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garden snapdragon

Scientific Name: Antirrhinum majus

Family: Scrophulariaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Annual, Perennial

Other Names:

       

Snapdragon (Antirrhinum majus)

Snapdragons, scientifically known as Antirrhinum majus, are a beloved addition to many gardens. Their unique flower shape and vibrant colors make them a popular choice for both experienced and novice gardeners.

Considerations for Children

  • Snapdragons get their name from the fact that you can gently squeeze the sides of the intricately shaped flower, resembling a dragon's mouth that opens and closes.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

  • Scientific Name: Antirrhinum majus
  • Common Names: Snapdragon, Garden Snapdragon
  • Family: Scrophulariaceae
  • Genus: Antirrhinum
  • Note: The term Antirrhinum spp. refers to multiple species within the Antirrhinum genus.

Distribution and Habitat

  • The garden snapdragon (A. majus) is the only species naturalized in North America.
  • It is native to China and widely introduced.
  • It can escape from gardens and persist in New England.
  • They are commonly found on old walls, rocks, and dry areas.

Morphology and Growth Habits

  • Snapdragons are mid-sized plants that can balance tall background plants and shorter bedding plants.
  • They have spiked flowers.
  • They produce upright racemes of two-lipped flowers.
  • They perform like a short-lived perennial.

Ecological Role

  • Snapdragons often escape from garden cultivation and naturalize in suitable environments.

Cultivation and Use

  • Snapdragons are colorful cool-season flowers that grow easily in most gardens and climates.
  • They thrive in cooler temperatures of late spring and do best in sunny locations with rich, well-drained soil.
  • They can handle frost.
  • They flower well from spring to fall in optimum cool summer growing conditions.
  • They are excellent in beds, edgings, containers, rock gardens, and window gardens.
  • They are popular as cut flowers for bouquets.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Their fragrant scent attracts butterflies into the garden.
  • The unique, double snapdragon petals prevent insects from pollinating the flower.

Quirky Facts

  • The flowers resemble a dragon's mouth, leading to the common name "Snapdragon" because they appear to "snap" shut when the sides are gently squeezed.
  • Snapdragon flowers are available in almost all the desired colors except blue.

Further Information

  • Dave's Garden is a friendly community that shares tips and ideas for gardens, along with seeds and plants.