Garden snapdragon (Antirrhinum majus)

Also known as: Common snapdragon, Dragon plant

The garden snapdragon (Antirrhinum majus) is a flowering plant often grown as an annual or biennial for ornamental purposes. Its unique flowers, which open like a dragon’s mouth when squeezed, give it its common name. The plant’s rapid growth and straightforward pollination process have made it a valuable subject for genetic research, establishing it as a model organism in plant genetics studies.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Garden snapdragon

Lifespan

Perennial, Annual, Biennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

20 cm to 1 m

Spread

10 cm to 50 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

1.5 cm to 5 cm

Flower Color

Yellow Pink Orange White Red Purple

Images of Garden snapdragon

Quickly Identify Garden snapdragon

Zygomorphic flowers resembling dragon heads with two-lipped corollas

Long, lance-shaped leaves with glossy dark green color

Distinctive capsule fruit with short beak, enclosed by calyx lobes

Opposite to alternate leaf arrangement, glabrous and smooth

Blooms measure 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) in length, emit mild fragrance

Scientific Classification of Garden snapdragon

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Mints plantains olives and allies

Family

Plantain

Genus

Snapdragons

Species

Garden snapdragon

Planting and Growing of Garden snapdragon

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 8 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Garden snapdragon?

Water Antirrhinum majus until the soil is evenly moist but not soggy. The key is to ensure the soil feels damp to the touch, but there's no standing water at the bottom of the pot. Adjust the amount if water drains quickly or slowly.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Garden snapdragon? ›

What should I do if my Garden snapdragon is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Garden snapdragon? ›

How to save an overwatered Garden snapdragon? ›

More About Watering Techniques→

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Garden snapdragon?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Antirrhinum majus flourishes in full to partial sun environments. Ideal light ensures strong flowering, vibrant colors, and robust growth, enhancing both the plant's health and visual appeal.

How much sunlight does Antirrhinum majus require? ›

What is the best location for Antirrhinum majus? ›

What are the benefits of proper sunlight for Antirrhinum majus? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Garden snapdragon?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature range for Antirrhinum majus is between 60°F and 75°F. This range ensures optimal growth and flowering. Temperatures above or below this range might affect the plant's development negatively, leading to stunted growth or reduced flowering. Maintaining this temperature helps the plant in photosynthesis and nutrient absorption.

What Soil is Best for Garden snapdragon?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Antirrhinum majus thrives in well-drained soil as it prevents root rot by allowing excess water to escape quickly. This is crucial for healthy root development and vigorous blooms. Rich soil packed with nutrients supports robust flowering and foliage growth. This plant benefits from organic matter that boosts soil fertility, enhancing overall vitality. Soil with moderate moisture retention balances the hydration needs of Antirrhinum majus. It helps maintain consistent moisture without becoming waterlogged, ensuring optimal growth. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Garden snapdragon?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Antirrhinum majus, it's crucial to use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio around 10-10-10 or 20-20-20. Apply a liquid solution at half the manufacturer's recommended strength to avoid over-fertilization. Ensure the soil is moist before applying to prevent root burn. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Garden snapdragon?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter

Begin by carefully assessing the plant for any dead, diseased, or damaged branches and flowers. Gently snip these away where they meet healthy tissue to encourage new growth, allowing the plant to direct energy to flourishing sections. Pinching the tips of the stems promotes a bushier growth habit. This involves gently squeezing off the growing tips throughout the spring and summer, which encourages more branches and a fuller display of blooms. Regularly shape your Antirrhinum majus by trimming back any excessively tall or unruly stems to maintain an aesthetically pleasing form. Pay attention to plant symmetry and fullness as you prune. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Garden snapdragon plant?

Propagate Time: Spring,Early spring

Fill the seed tray with a fine-quality potting mix, ensuring it's moist but not waterlogged. Level the surface gently to avoid air pockets that might hinder seed growth.

Evenly distribute Antirrhinum majus seeds over the seed tray. Lightly cover with a thin layer of soil, as they require light for proper germination. Maintain consistent moisture by misting lightly.

Select healthy, non-flowering shoots for cuttings. Use a sharp knife to take 4-5 inch long cuttings, remove lower leaves, and plant them in a well-drained propagation mix.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Garden snapdragon plant?

Repotting frequency: Annually or bi-annually

Antirrhinum majus, commonly known as snapdragons, should be repotted when you notice the roots circling at the bottom of the pot or when the soil dries out too quickly after watering. These are indicators that the plant has outgrown its current pot and needs more room to thrive.

Select a pot that is one size larger than the current one, featuring good drainage holes at the bottom. A bigger pot allows the roots to expand and avoid being root-bound, and the drainage holes prevent waterlogging, which can harm the plant's roots.

Opt for a well-draining potting mix with plenty of organic matter. This type of soil promotes robust root growth by offering the roots essential nutrients and facilitating water drainage, preventing rot, and establishing a healthy root system.