Position – Sun or part shade
Soil – Well-drained
Flowering Period – Late spring and summer until early frosts
Hardiness – Hardy to half hardy
Antirrhinum are commonly referred to as the Snapdragon and are annuals, perennials or sub-shrubs that fashion simple hairy leaves, erect stems and brightly coloured pink tubular blooms to withhold a prominent presence in your garden throughout the summer months until the early frosts. They make a fantastic addition to flower beds, borders and pots within a cottage or courtyard garden setting. You should expect Antirrhinum to grow to an approximate height of 60 cm (24”) and a spread of 75 cm (30”).
Antirrhinum are best planted in well-drained soil of sand, chalk or loam within an alkaline or neutral PH balance. Amend the planting area with sufficient organic matter and combine well with the native soil. Dig a hole that is a little deeper and wider than the root ball and set your plant in place, watering thoroughly once in position. A suitable site for Antirrhinum would be in a sheltered area of full sun or part shade.
When first planted, ensure soil is kept moist for its first few weeks. This should be sustained during periods of dry weather. Antirrhinum do not react well to excessive winter wet and should be protected by a layer of mulch in bouts of cold and wet weather. Deadhead your plants once the flowering period is over to promote continued development and further growth for the following season. As Antirrhinum continues to mature, you may need to stake in place to retain a healthy structure.
It is possible to propagate Antirrhinum by softwood cuttings during the summer.
