Snapdragon (Antirrhinum majus)
Care, watering, light and tips for Snapdragon on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Plantaginaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Snapdragon
Antirrhinum majus, commonly known as snapdragon, is an annual or short-lived perennial herbaceous plant, prized for its showy, bilabiate flowers that resemble a dragon's mouth. Its floral spikes, available in a wide range of vibrant colors, are ideal for adding verticality and color to flower beds, borders, and containers, as well as for cut flower arrangements. It's an excellent choice for cottage gardens and for attracting pollinators.
Native range
Mediterranean region, from Morocco and Portugal to southern France and western Syria.
Care tips
Snapdragons require full sun for abundant flowering, though they can tolerate some partial shade in very hot climates. Watering should be regular, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during dry periods. They prefer well-drained, fertile, and organic-rich soils; good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot. A common mistake is not 'pinching' young plants to encourage denser branching and more flower production.
How to save a dying Snapdragon
- Warning signs
- Yellowing or browning leaves from base, soft and drooping stems, no flowering or wilted flowers.
- First aid
- Check drainage and soil moisture. Prune damaged stems and leaves. Move to partial shade if too sunny.
- What kills it
- Overwatering causing root rot, or underwatering causing rapid dehydration. High temperatures without shade.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't completely rotted and green stems remain. Act quickly.