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Snapdragons
The snapdragon is a variety of plant belonging
to the taxonomic genus antirrhinum. The flower
was once considered a member of the taxonomic
family scrophulariaceae, but has since been reclassified
into the family plantaginaceae following studies
of the plant's DNA sequence.
The name "antirrhinum" originates from the ancient
Greek a?t???????, transliterated as "antirrhinon,"
which translates to "like a nose." The origin
of this name becomes apparent when one views the
snapdragon in its mature state, which features
a capsule that resembles a nose. Its more common
name is derived from the flowers' purported similarity
in appearance to a dragon's face as it opens and
closes its mouth (hence the "snap" in "snapdragon")
when the flower is squeezed.
Snapdragon flowers can be found in a wide variety
of colors, and are available both in multi-color
blends and in single colors. This range of shades
encompasses just about all colors except blue,
including bright colors, pastels, and even gradients
of multiple colors. The flowers adorn tall spikes
that feature alternating leaves arranged in a
spiral on the stem. The plant is bushy, though
this feature is less apparent in the taller varieties.
Snapdragons are available in a wide range of
heights. The smallest variety, called the dwarf
variety, measures six to 15 inches in height,
while the largest variety, called the tall variety,
is between 30 and 48 inches tall. A number of
heights exist in between these two categories,
all of which are classed as medium.
The snapdragon is a perennial plant, but is typically
grown as a cold-season annual. It blooms in the
spring, but may stop blooming if the weather becomes
too hot. Though excessive heat poses a problem
for the snapdragon, it thrives in sunlight, faring
best in full or partial sun. To keep snapdragon
plants well during the summer, it is best to plant
them in partial sun and to take extra care to
water them sufficiently.
Despite the snapdragon's sensitivity to excess
heat, it does not fare well in particularly cold
climates. The snapdragon does best in cool weather,
typically that of the fall and spring, but can
do well in the winter in milder climates.
It is best to plant snapdragons in a soil with
a neutral pH, in particular one that drains well
to prevent the roots from rotting. The use of
organic matter to help the plant bloom and stay
healthy is also wise. Snapdragons should either
be sown in the winter or started indoors and transferred
outside a few weeks shortly before the final frost
of the season.
About the Author:
Maddison Hendrix is a long time gardner and shares
her knowledge in educational articles at Perennial
Gardens http://www.perennial-gardens.com
and Butterfly Gardens http://www.butterfly-gardens.com
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