Antirrhinum Majus
Contents
Description
Antirrhinum Majus, commonly known as snapdragon, is a flowering plant species native to the Mediterranean region. It belongs to the family Plantaginaceae and is popular for its vibrant and colorful flowers that bloom in a variety of shades such as pink, red, yellow, orange, and white. The plant grows up to 3 feet tall and has a bushy growth habit with lance-shaped leaves that are green in color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Antirrhinum |
Appearance
The snapdragon is a beautiful flowering plant that is loved for its vibrant and colorful flowers. The plant grows up to 3 feet tall and has a bushy growth habit. The leaves of the plant are lance-shaped and green in color. The flowers of the snapdragon bloom in a variety of shades such as pink, red, yellow, orange, and white. The flowers have a unique shape that resembles the head of a dragon when the jaws are opened and closed, hence the name “snapdragon”.
Care Guide
The snapdragon is a relatively easy plant to care for and maintain. Here are some tips to help you care for your snapdragon:
- Water: The snapdragon requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. Water the plant deeply, but be careful not to overwater it as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. This will help to promote healthy growth and blooming.
- Soil: The snapdragon prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Make sure to plant the snapdragon in soil that has good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
- Sunlight: The snapdragon prefers full sun to partial shade. Make sure to plant the snapdragon in an area that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: The snapdragon is hardy in USDA zones 7-10. If you live in a colder climate, you can still grow snapdragons as an annual.
Common Pests & Diseases
The snapdragon is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can still be susceptible to a few common problems. Here are some common pests and diseases that can affect the snapdragon:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can be found on the leaves and stems of the snapdragon. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause yellowing and curling of the leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Mildew: Mildew is a fungal disease that can affect the leaves of the snapdragon, causing them to turn yellow and brown. It can be controlled with a fungicide spray.
Habitat
The snapdragon is native to the Mediterranean region but is now widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in many parts of the world. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. The snapdragon is often used in flower beds, borders, and container gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the snapdragon survive in cold temperatures?
A: The snapdragon is hardy in USDA zones 7-10. If you live in a colder climate, you can still grow snapdragons as an annual.
Q: How often should I water my snapdragon?
A: The snapdragon requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. Water the plant deeply, but be careful not to overwater it as this can lead to root rot.
Q: What is the best time to plant snapdragons?
A: The best time to plant snapdragons is in the spring after the last frost date.
Q: How tall can snapdragons grow?
A: Snapdragons can grow up to 3 feet tall.
Related Plants
- Antirrhinum Orontium
- Antirrhinum Asarina
- Antirrhinum Corsicum
- Antirrhinum Molle
References
- Encyclopedia of Garden Plants. (n.d.). Antirrhinum majus. Retrieved from https://www.encyclopedia.com/plants-and-animals/plants/plants/antirrhinum-majus
- Gardening Know How. (2021). Snapdragons. Retrieved from https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/snapdragon/snapdragon-plants.htm
- Royal Horticultural Society. (n.d.). Antirrhinum majus. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/5034/antirrhinum-majus/details
