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Description
Antirrhinum Siculum, commonly known as the Sicilian Snapdragon or the Mount Etna Snapdragon, is a beautiful and hardy plant species that belongs to the Plantaginaceae family. It is native to Sicily, Italy, and prefers rocky and dry habitats. Its scientific name is derived from the Greek words “anti” (like) and “rhin” (nose), referring to the shape of the flowers that resemble a nose or a dragon’s head.This perennial plant grows up to 60-80 cm in height and 30-40 cm in width. It has green, lance-shaped leaves that are up to 8 cm long and 2 cm wide. Its flowers bloom in late spring to early summer and are tubular-shaped with two lips. The upper lip is arched and the lower lip is three-lobed. The flowers come in a range of vibrant colors, including pink, purple, white, and yellow.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Antirrhinum |
| Species | Siculum |
Appearance
Antirrhinum Siculum is a striking plant that adds a splash of color to any garden. Its flowers come in a range of vibrant colors, including pink, purple, white, and yellow. The flowers are tubular-shaped with two lips. The upper lip is arched and the lower lip is three-lobed. The plant has green, lance-shaped leaves that are up to 8 cm long and 2 cm wide. It grows up to 60-80 cm in height and 30-40 cm in width.
Care Guide
Antirrhinum Siculum is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:- Water: Water the plant regularly but do not overwater it. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.- Soil: Plant the Snapdragon in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Antirrhinum Siculum is hardy in zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Antirrhinum Siculum is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:- Aphids: These insects can cause the leaves to wilt and damage the flowers. Use insecticidal soap to control them.- Spider mites: These pests can cause the leaves to turn yellow and brown. Use insecticidal soap to control them.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. Use a fungicide to control it.
Habitat
Antirrhinum Siculum is native to Sicily, Italy, and prefers rocky and dry habitats. It can be found growing on mountain slopes, rocky cliffs, and in open fields. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate drought and poor soil conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the meaning behind the scientific name of Antirrhinum Siculum?
A: The scientific name of Antirrhinum Siculum is derived from the Greek words “anti” (like) and “rhin” (nose), referring to the shape of the flowers that resemble a nose or a dragon’s head.
Q: What are the common colors of the flowers of Antirrhinum Siculum?
A: The flowers of Antirrhinum Siculum come in a range of vibrant colors, including pink, purple, white, and yellow.
Q: What are the hardiness zones for Antirrhinum Siculum?
A: Antirrhinum Siculum is hardy in zones 7-10.
Q: How often should I fertilize Antirrhinum Siculum?
A: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Related Plants
– Antirrhinum majus (Common Snapdragon)- Antirrhinum braun-blanquetii (Braun-Blanquet’s Snapdragon)- Antirrhinum charidemi (Charidemi’s Snapdragon)- Antirrhinum glutinosum (Sticky Snapdragon)
References
– “Antirrhinum Siculum”. Plant Delights Nursery. Retrieved 2021-08-05.- “Antirrhinum Siculum”. RHS. Retrieved 2021-08-05.- “Antirrhinum Siculum”. The Plant List. Retrieved 2021-08-05.
