Everything about Snapdragons

Snapdragon

Common Name: Dog's mouth, toad's mouth, lion's mouth

Latin Name: Antirrhinum majus

Family: Plantaginaceae

Plant Time: -

Mature Size: 6–48 in. tall

Sun Preference: Full sun, partial sun

Soil Preference: Moist, well-draining soil with Acidic to Neutral pH levels

Bloom Time: Spring, summer, fall

Flower Color: Pink, White, Yellow, Red, Purple, Orange

Native Area: Europa, Asia, Mediterranean

Toxicity: -

Growth Rate: -

Wildlife Value: -

Table of Contents

Snapdragons (Antirrhinum majus) are popular garden plants known for their bright, dragon-shaped flowers and wide range of colors. These cool-weather plants are easy to grow and can be started from seeds, seedlings, or cuttings, making them a versatile choice for any gardener. Snapdragons thrive in well-drained soil and prefer full sun, though they can tolerate light frost.

With regular pruning and care, they bloom from spring through early fall, providing months of vibrant color. Their bushy growth and long-lasting flowers make them ideal for flower beds, borders, and even pots.

Popular Snapdragon Varieties

Snapdragon

Care

  • Water: Snapdragons enjoy regular watering but don’t like soggy soil. Water them when the top inch of soil feels dry, making sure not to overwater as that can lead to root problems.
  • Light: Snapdragons love full sun but can handle some light shade. They need at least six hours of sunlight per day for the best blooms.
  • Soil: Well-drained soil is key for snapdragons. They grow best in slightly acidic, fertile soil, so mix in some compost before planting for better results.
  • Temperature: Snapdragons thrive in cool weather, preferring temperatures between 68 and 95°F (20-35°C). They don’t handle heat well, so plant them in the cooler parts of the season.

Planting & Growing

Snapdragons can be grown from seeds, seedlings, or even cuttings. If starting from seeds, plant them indoors 6-12 weeks before the last frost, pressing them lightly onto the soil since they need light to sprout. Keep them under bright lights for about 16 hours a day. You can also sow them directly outside a few weeks before the last frost.

For stem cuttings, take a 2-inch piece from a healthy plant, dip it in rooting hormone, and plant it in soil under a plastic cover until roots grow. Once your plants are strong, transplant them outdoors a couple of weeks before the last frost. Snapdragons grow best in cool weather and can even survive a light frost!

Pruning

The best time to prune snapdragons is in spring and early summer, when the flowers start looking a bit worn out. Snip off the dead blooms (aka deadheading) to keep your plants looking fresh and encourage more flowers. If your snapdragons get too wild by late summer, you can trim them back to just a few inches above the ground—they’ll regrow quickly!

For a head start, pinch off the tips of young seedlings early on. This little trick helps your plants grow bushier with more blooms later. Regular pruning will keep your snapdragons healthy and full of vibrant flowers all season long.

Check out our full guide below on how to prune Snapdragons the right way!

Common Pests

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you keep snapdragon flowers alive?

Deadhead often, feed them, and keep them watered to enjoy blooms through spring, summer, and even fall in cooler places. Growing them in pots works great for small spaces like balconies or terraces.

Can you overwater snapdragons?

Overwatering is a major problem for snapdragons and can cause root rot. If your soil feels swampy, you’re likely overdoing it.

Are snapdragons durable?

Snapdragons are tough but thrive best in cooler weather and during their first bloom. They’re usually grown as annuals because they look best in their first season.

Do snapdragons do well in pots?

Snapdragons love sunny spots in pots, just keep them watered and feed them during their growing season for best results.

Planting calendar

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