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Description
Antirrhinum Tortuosum, commonly known as the twisted snapdragon, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Plantaginaceae family. It is native to the Mediterranean region, particularly in Spain and Portugal. The plant has an upright habit, growing up to 60cm in height. Its leaves are lance-shaped and dark green in color, growing alternately along the stems. The flowers are tubular, with two lips and a spur at the back of the corolla. The twisted snapdragon blooms in the summer, producing flowers in shades of pink, red, yellow, and orange.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Antirrhinum |
Appearance
The twisted snapdragon is a beautiful plant that can add a pop of color to any garden. Its flowers are the main attraction, and they come in a range of bright and bold shades. The plant’s stems are upright and sturdy, with lance-shaped leaves that grow alternately along the stem. The flowers are tubular in shape, with two lips and a spur at the back of the corolla. The twisted snapdragon grows up to 60cm in height and can spread up to 30cm wide.
Care Guide
To ensure the twisted snapdragon thrives, it is essential to provide it with the right care. Here are some tips for caring for this beautiful plant:
Water
The twisted snapdragon prefers well-draining soil, so it is important not to overwater it. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Soil
The twisted snapdragon prefers well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 6.8. Add organic matter to the soil to improve drainage and fertility.
Sunlight
The twisted snapdragon prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but will not bloom as profusely.
Hardiness Zones
The twisted snapdragon is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The twisted snapdragon is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. To prevent these problems, keep the plant healthy by providing it with adequate water, sunlight, and fertilizer. If pests or diseases do appear, treat them promptly with appropriate measures.
Habitat
The twisted snapdragon is native to the Mediterranean region, particularly in Spain and Portugal. It grows in rocky and sandy soils, in areas with full sun to partial shade.
Questions and Answers
Q: Is the twisted snapdragon poisonous?
A: No, the twisted snapdragon is not poisonous to humans or pets.
Q: Can the twisted snapdragon grow in containers?
A: Yes, the twisted snapdragon can grow in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant receives adequate water and sunlight.
Q: How often should I fertilize the twisted snapdragon?
A: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: How do I propagate the twisted snapdragon?
A: Propagate the twisted snapdragon by taking stem cuttings in the spring or fall. Plant the cuttings in well-draining soil and keep them moist until they root.
Related Plants
Here are some plants related to the twisted snapdragon:
- Antirrhinum majus (common snapdragon)
- Linaria purpurea (purple toadflax)
- Veronica spicata (spiked speedwell)
References
- “Antirrhinum Tortuosum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c274.
- “Antirrhinum Tortuosum.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/15122/i-Antirrhinum-tortuosum-i/Details.
- “Twisted Snapdragon.” Plant Care Today, 16 Apr. 2019, plantcaretoday.com/twisted-snapdragon-plant-care.html.
