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Description
Antirrhinum Antirrhiniflorum, commonly known as the Snapdragon, is a flowering plant from the family Plantaginaceae. This perennial plant is native to the western Mediterranean region, particularly in Spain and Portugal. It is a popular garden plant known for its unique shape and vibrant colors.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Antirrhinum |
Appearance
The Snapdragon plant grows up to 60cm tall and 45cm wide. It has a bushy and compact growth habit with green lanceolate leaves. Its flowers are brightly colored, ranging from white, yellow, pink, red, and purple. The flowers have a unique shape with two lips that resemble a dragon’s head, hence the name Snapdragon. The bloom time is from late spring to early summer.
Care Guide
Antirrhinum Antirrhiniflorum is easy to care for and can adapt to different growing conditions. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water regularly, especially during dry periods. Avoid over-watering as it can cause root rot.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil. It can grow in sandy, loamy, or clay soil.
- Sunlight: Plant in full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Antirrhinum Antirrhiniflorum is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Snapdragon plant is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to rust, powdery mildew, and aphids. To prevent these problems, avoid over-watering and overcrowding. Use organic insecticides and fungicides as a last resort.
Habitat
Antirrhinum Antirrhiniflorum is native to the western Mediterranean region, particularly in Spain and Portugal. It grows in rocky or gravelly soils in open areas, meadows, and slopes. It can also grow in disturbed areas such as roadsides and abandoned fields.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Snapdragon plants grow in containers?
A: Yes, Snapdragon plants can grow in containers as long as they have enough space to grow and the soil is well-draining.
Q: How often should I fertilize Snapdragon plants?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: How do I propagate Snapdragon plants?
A: Snapdragon plants can be propagated by division or stem cuttings. Divide the plant in early spring, or take stem cuttings in late spring or early summer.
Q: How long do Snapdragon flowers last?
A: Snapdragon flowers bloom for about 2-3 weeks in late spring to early summer.
Related Plants
- Antirrhinum Majus (Common Snapdragon)
- Antirrhinum Orontium (Lesser Snapdragon)
- Antirrhinum Kelloggii (Kellogg’s Snapdragon)
References
- “Antirrhinum antirrhiniflorum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed November 15, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b554.
- “Antirrhinum antirrhiniflorum.” PlantFiles. Accessed November 15, 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/2885/.
- “Antirrhinum antirrhiniflorum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed November 15, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/14315/Antirrhinum-antirrhiniflorum/Details.
