Snapdragon
Misopates orontium · Plantaginaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant snapdragon: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Blooming
- May to September
- Adult size
- 20 to 60 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Frost-tender (annual or biennial)
- Origin
- Mediterranean, southwestern Europe
- Soil type
- Well-drained, chalky, poor to moderate
Care
Light and sun exposure
Field snapdragon thrives in full sun, ideally 6 to 8 hours of direct light daily. In partial shade, flowering diminishes. Place it in an open spot to promote good air circulation.
Watering
Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid excess moisture which promotes rot. Regular but non-waterlogged watering is enough, especially during summer.
Soil and drainage
Prefer well-drained, light soil, even chalky soil. A poor substrate suits this hardy Mediterranean plant perfectly. Improve drainage with coarse sand if your soil is heavy.
Fertilization
Not very demanding, this plant requires minimal fertilizer. Light organic amendment in spring is sufficient; too many nutrients encourage foliage at the expense of flowering.
Pruning and deadheading
Pinch off the tips in spring to encourage branching and a bushier shape. Regularly remove spent flowers to extend blooming and direct energy toward new flowers.
Pests and diseases
Relatively resistant, field snapdragon can be affected by powdery mildew in overly humid conditions. Watch for aphids in spring. Prioritize good air circulation and avoid stagnant moisture to prevent problems.
Did you know?
Field snapdragon gets its scientific name 'orontium' from a biblical river, and its nickname 'snapdragon' from the shape of its closed flower which resembles a snout. Long ago, children loved to gently squeeze the flower to make it 'talk' — a tradition still alive in some Mediterranean gardens.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.