Spires of pouched flowers that children love to snap open, a superb cut flower in the cool seasons. Pinch young plants for bushy, well-branched spikes.
At a glance
- Plant type: Annual
- Mature size: 80 cm H × 30 cm W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Snapdragon
Antirrhinum majus is an moderate-growing annual in the Plantaginaceae family. It reaches around 80 cm tall and 30 cm wide at maturity, with semi-deciduous foliage. Red, pink, yellow, orange, white and purple flowers appear in winter, spring and summer.
Where to grow Snapdragon
Snapdragon suits cool-temperate, warm-temperate and Mediterranean climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Snapdragon provided drainage is reasonable. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Snapdragon is regular, moderate watering. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Snapdragon after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Snapdragon in the garden
Snapdragon earns its place for cut flowers for the vase, feeding bees and pollinators, pots and courtyard containers and a feature or specimen planting. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Snapdragon with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and cool-temperate climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Snapdragon
Plant Sale lists Snapdragon as seed. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it lands.
Prefer to grow it yourself? See the Snapdragon seed sowing guide for depth, timing and germination.