Description
Antirrhinum majus |Ā ‘Brighton Rock’ Common Snapdragon
Native to Southern Europe and the Mediterranean, Snapdragons have delighted gardeners with their exceptionally showy flowers for hundreds of years. They are named after their flowers, which look like a dragonās open mouth when you squeeze them on the side. Antirrhinum means ālike a snoutā. The appearance of all snapdragon varieties are quite similar. They feature colorful petals that fold out dramatically from a thick stem. One or two petals on the top curl upwards sharply, while one or two bottom petals face the ground.
These ‘Brighton Rock’ Snapdragon seeds are an old intermediate-sized heirloom variety that’s been in cultivation since the 19th Century. It is sometimes marketed as āBizarre Hybridsā or āArtiste Bizarreā. Flowers bloom in early summer and are a striking mix of unusual and interesting pastel and bi-colored blooms Some are delicately marbled while others are speckled and striped.
Like most early-season flowers, Snapdragons germinate easily when sown indoors and also do well when direct sown outdoors.Ā Antirrhinum majus will thrive in the cooler temperatures of late spring and are happiest in sunny locations with rich, well-drained soil.Ā Garden cultivation has occurred for hundreds of years… Many plants and flowers appeared in folklore and legend during this time, and the snapdragon flower is no exception. Snapdragons are easily grown in most regions and blooms can tolerate some frost, and make it through until the next year, but a heavy frost may take them out, so they are most often grown as an annual in the coldest climates. In warmer climates (usually zones 8/9 or higher) they can act as a short-lived perennial and perhaps bloom all winter. Expect volunteer plants the following year as these do self seed moderately.
Snapdragons are a favorite flower for cutting for use in fresh bouquets.
Type: Annual or perennial
Sun exposure: Full sun
Mature height: 14-18 inches
Mature width: 10-12 inches
Hardiness zones: 8- 11