Antirhinums (Snapdragon) : Flower Facts

Meaning

Gracious lady, deception, presumption.

Origins

A highly versatile, spiky flower that comes from the Mediterranean area, the snapdragon belongs to the Scrophulariaceae family and rivals the carnation in its usefulness to the retail florist. Holding between six and 15 florets on 18- to 36-inch stems, snapdragons are properly known as Antirrhinum majus--which in Latin means "like a nose or snout"--and were christened as such for the lush blooms' resemblance to a mythical dragon's snout. The mant pastel flowers of these tall spikes allows florists and consumers many design options. Snapdragons used to be considered sensitive to ethylene, but newer cultivators have been selected for ethylene resistance and ethylene normally only causes a problem when present in moderate concentrations. Flower Shattering or dropping occurs in 24 hours if ethylene is present in the air.

Flower Availability and Vase Life

Snapdragons are available all year-round in a wide spectrum of colours, including white, ivory, pink, yellow, peach, red, magenta and variegated varieties are also available, such as the peach and ivory coloured "Apple Blossom" snapdragon. Vase life varies by cultivar, but snapdragons will generally do well for 5-8 days in water. With proper care and handling, their vase life may even be doubled to 10-16 days.

Care and Handling

Snapdragons are ethylene sensitive flowers that require proper treatment and flower food for optimum vase life. Upon receipt, cut stems and remove lower foliage that will fall below the water line. Place stems in a clean container of properly prepared flower food. Display snapdragons in indirect light and away from heat.

Florist Design Uses

With their strong line forms, interesting texture and colour versatility, snapdragons make wonderful additions to multi coloured and mixed bouquets. For a mass effect, use multiple stems cut short.