Snapdragon
Antirrhinum majus
A popular ornamental snapdragon with bilabiate tubular flowers in many colors; typically grown as an annual or short-lived perennial for borders, beds, and containers.
Pet-Friendly Plant
Toxicity: non toxic
Snapdragons are generally considered non-toxic to pets and people; ingestion may cause mild stomach upset in sensitive individuals but serious symptoms are uncommon.
🌱Care Requirements
Light
Place snapdragons where they receive at least 6 hours of direct sun daily; in very hot regions provide afternoon shade. Indoors, choose a sunny south- or west-facing windowsill with good airflow to prevent mildew.
Water
Water thoroughly when the top 1 inch (2.5 cm) of soil is dry; saturate until water drains and then allow to dry slightly. Use well-draining soil and reduce frequency in cool weather to avoid root rot.
Humidity
Prefers average household humidity (40–60%). Avoid high, stagnant humidity that encourages fungal disease; improve air circulation and avoid frequent misting.
Temperature
Ideal 10–25°C (50–77°F). Tolerates brief lows to ~5°C (41°F) and highs to ~30°C (86°F), though extreme heat reduces bloom set.
🔧Common Problems & Solutions
Leggy growth and few flowers
Cause: Insufficient light or overcrowding and too-rich fertilizer promoting foliage
Solution: Move to brighter sun, pinch back stems to encourage branching, avoid excessive nitrogen and space plants 15–30 cm apart.
Yellowing leaves and wilting
Cause: Overwatering or poor drainage causing root rot
Solution: Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, repot into well-draining mix, trim rotten roots and reduce watering frequency.
Aphids, whiteflies or spider mites
Cause: Warm, dry conditions and crowded plants attract sap-sucking pests
Solution: Blast with water, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, increase airflow and remove heavily infested blooms; isolate new plants.
Powdery mildew or rust spots
Cause: High humidity, poor air circulation, and wet foliage
Solution: Improve spacing and airflow, water at the soil level, remove affected foliage and apply a fungicide if needed.
✂️How to Propagate Snapdragon
By seed: sow indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost on surface of moist, well-draining mix; press seeds lightly and keep at 15–20°C (59–68°F). Transplant after frost risk passes. By stem cuttings: take 5–8 cm healthy tips, remove lower leaves, dip in rooting hormone, insert into moist cutting mix, keep bright and humid until roots form in 2–3 weeks.
🌍Origin & Background
Family: Plantaginaceae
Native to: Native to the Mediterranean region of southern Europe and North Africa.
Natural Habitat: Grows on rocky hillsides, coastal cliffs and open meadows in Mediterranean climates; favors full sun, cool season growth and well-drained, low- to moderate-fertility soils.
🗓Seasonal Care Guide
Winter
In cold regions treat as an annual; in mild climates cut back spent stems, mulch roots and reduce watering. Protect from hard frost with cloches or bring containers indoors.
Spring
Start seeds early indoors or sow outdoors after last frost; transplant and thin seedlings. Feed with a balanced fertilizer as blooms develop and deadhead spent flowers.
Summer
Provide consistent moisture and some afternoon shade in hot climates. Pinch back leggy stems to encourage new blooms and monitor for pests and mildew.
Fall
In mild areas sow or transplant for winter/spring blooms. Clean up dead growth, collect seed for propagation, and reduce feeding as plants slow down.
❓Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water snapdragons?
Water when the top 2.5 cm (1 inch) of soil is dry, typically every 3–7 days depending on temperature and pot size.
Can snapdragons tolerate frost?
They tolerate light frost and cool weather but are damaged by hard freezes; protect or bring indoors if frost is expected.
What's the best soil for snapdragons?
Use a well-draining, loamy soil with moderate fertility; avoid heavy, waterlogged soils that cause root rot.
Do snapdragons need deadheading?
Yes — regularly removing spent blooms encourages more flowering and prolongs the display throughout the season.
How do I stop aphids on snapdragons?
Use a strong water spray, insecticidal soap or neem oil and promote beneficial insects; isolate infested plants.
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Last updated: 11/7/2025