Snap Dragon
Snapdragon (Antirrhinum majus)
Scientific Name: Antirrhinum majus
Common Names: Snapdragons, Dragon Flowers
Native to: Mediterranean region, including southern Europe and North Africa
Lighting Requirements: Full sun to partial shade. Snapdragons thrive in bright sunlight but can tolerate light shade, especially in warmer climates where shade helps prolong blooming.
Height: 6 to 48 inches, depending on the variety
Width: 6 to 12 inches
Winter Look: Grown as an annual in colder weather, it may act as a short-lived perennial and survive through the next season.
Seasonal Interest: Fall to spring
Drought Tolerance: Low to moderate. Snapdragons prefer consistent moisture and do not tolerate prolonged drought. Regular watering is necessary during dry periods.
Soil Requirements: Well-draining, fertile soil with good organic matter
pH Range: 6.0 to 7.5 (slightly acidic to slightly alkaline)
Deer Resistance: Moderate. Snapdragons are not highly attractive to deer, but they may be grazed if other food sources are scarce.
Attracts: Bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds
Potential Issues: Susceptible to rust. Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot.
Notes: Snapdragons are beloved for their bright, showy flowers and unique dragon-shaped blooms that add vertical interest to gardens. They come in a wide range of colors, including red, pink, orange, yellow, white, and purple, and are available in dwarf, medium, and tall varieties. Snapdragons are excellent for borders, cut flower gardens and containers. They perform best in cooler weather, often blooming profusely in spring and fall before slowing down during the peak summer heat. Deadheading spent blooms encourage continuous flowering. While typically grown as annuals, snapdragons can act as short-lived perennials in mild climates, providing a second season of blooms if cut back after the first flowering period.
To be clear, Snaps are a cool season annual or a short-lived perennial if you can get them through the summer.
Antirrhinum rust is a fungal disease that can severely affect Snapdragons. It will show up as yellow spots on the upper surface of the leaves and rust-colored pustules on the undersides. It can be so severe that the plant and others (Snaps) around it can die. Occasionally, the spores can overwinter and attack again the following year. Treat with neem if you see this beginning. You can also add cornmeal to the soil.
Please don't let the above information scare you away from these beauties! I've grown them every year, and this has only happened once (over 12 years ago!).