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 a 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. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Snapdragon does best with regular, moderate watering. Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to support healthy growth. For the first year, favour occasional deep watering over frequent shallow drinks so roots move into the surrounding soil.
Pruning & care
Prune Snapdragon after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Its ongoing care level 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
Build the planting around neighbours suited to the same regular, moderate watering and cool-temperate climate as Snapdragon. Repeating the foliage or flower colour nearby will make the composition feel deliberate.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Snapdragon
Plant Sale lists Snapdragon as seed. Use the interest form above to check current sizes, pricing and availability before ordering.
Prefer to grow it yourself? See the Snapdragon seed sowing guide for depth, timing and germination.
