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Description
Antirrhinum Hispanicum, also known as Spanish snapdragon, is a species of flowering plant in the family Plantaginaceae. It is native to Spain and Portugal, but has been introduced to other parts of Europe and North America. This herbaceous perennial is known for its showy, brightly colored flowers that bloom in the summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Antirrhinum |
Appearance
The Spanish snapdragon has a bushy habit, with upright stems that can reach up to 60 cm in height. The leaves are lance-shaped and glossy, and can be up to 10 cm long. The flowers are the main attraction, with large, trumpet-shaped blooms that come in shades of pink, purple, white, and yellow. The flowers are arranged in densely packed spikes that can be up to 30 cm long.
Care Guide
The Spanish snapdragon is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The Spanish snapdragon prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun, but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The Spanish snapdragon is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Spanish snapdragon is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to rust and powdery mildew if grown in damp conditions. Aphids and thrips can also be a problem, but can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Spanish snapdragon is native to the Iberian Peninsula, where it grows in dry, rocky areas and on cliffs. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun, but can tolerate some shade. The plant has been introduced to other parts of Europe and North America as an ornamental.
Question and Answer
- Q: Can the Spanish snapdragon be grown in containers?
- A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
- Q: How often should I fertilize the Spanish snapdragon?
- A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Q: What is the best time to plant the Spanish snapdragon?
- A: The plant can be planted in the spring or fall.
- Q: How long do the flowers of the Spanish snapdragon last?
- A: The flowers can last for several weeks.
Related Plants
- Antirrhinum majus (Common snapdragon)
- Antirrhinum molle (Soft snapdragon)
- Antirrhinum barrelieri (Barrelier’s snapdragon)
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Antirrhinum hispanicum
- RHS: Antirrhinum hispanicum
- University of Wisconsin-Madison: Antirrhinum hispanicum
