Snapdragon Antirrhinum majus 'Bells Pink' (Bells Series)
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as Snapdragon 'Bells Pink' (Bells Series) is notable for its striking floral display. The blossoms are a lush shade of pink, typically characterized by a hue that can range from soft, pastel tones to a more vibrant, deep pink. Each flower takes on a bell-like form which is a signature feature of the Bells Series, giving the plant its charming appearance. These flowers are grouped together densely, forming a rich tapestry of color that can catch the eye from a distance. Snapdragons are revered for their unique blossoms which have a distinctive upper and lower lip. The 'Bells Pink' variety continues this tradition, but with a softer presentation of the characteristic Snapdragon flower shape. The petals may exhibit a subtle ruffling along the edges, adding texture and interest to the overall look of the plant. The flowers are borne on stems that rise above the foliage, contributing to a vertical element in the plant's form. The foliage of the Snapdragon 'Bells Pink' consists of lance-shaped leaves that tend to be a medium to dark green color. The leaves are arranged in a manner that creates a full, bushy green backdrop for the pink flowers, which further accentuates the visual impact of the blooms. Snapdragons are often appreciated for their continuous blooming habit, with the 'Bells Pink' variety providing a prolonged display of its pink flowers under suitable growing conditions. This plant is a popular choice for gardeners seeking to add a splash of color to their floral arrangements, borders, or beds. Its vibrant flowers not only add aesthetic appeal but can also attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies to the garden.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Snapdragon, Dragon Flower, Dog’s Mouth, Lion’s Mouth, Toad’s Mouth
Common names
Antirrhinum majus 'Bells Pink' (Bells Series)
ToxicityTo humans
Snapdragons, including the variety Antirrhinum majus 'Bells Pink', are generally not considered toxic to humans. They are widely grown in gardens and used as cut flowers with no significant reports of poisoning. However, ingesting any plant material could potentially cause a mild stomach upset due to the presence of saponins and other plant compounds. As with any non-food plant, it is advisable not to eat it.
To pets
Snapdragons, such as the Antirrhinum majus 'Bells Pink', are generally recognized as safe for pets and are not known to be toxic to cats, dogs, or other household pets. If a pet ingests a small quantity, it is unlikely to cause any significant health issues. However, consuming large amounts could potentially result in a mild gastrointestinal upset, similar to what might occur if a pet eats any non-food plant or unfamiliar material.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Snapdragons, such as Antirrhinum majus 'Bells Pink', add vibrant colors and unique shapes to gardens and landscapes.
- Attracts Pollinators: Snapdragons can attract bees and butterflies, which are essential for pollination.
- Easy to Grow: They are known for being easy to care for, making them suitable for novice gardeners.
- Long Blooming Period: Snapdragons have a long flowering season, providing color from spring to fall.
- Versatility: They are suitable for bedding, borders, containers, and cut flower gardens.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, snapdragons can tolerate short periods of drought.
- Cold Resilience: Snapdragons can withstand cooler temperatures and can be planted in early spring.
- Deer Resistance: They are generally not preferred by deer, which helps prevent garden damage.
- Color Variety: The Bells series provides a range of colors for diverse garden design.
- Compact Growth: This variety remains compact, which is ideal for small spaces and dense floral displays.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Plant Traps: Snapdragons can be used as protective plant traps in the garden; their sticky residue can sometimes trap small insects, protecting more valuable plants.
- Photography and Art: The unique dragon-shaped blossoms of Snapdragons are popular subjects for photographers and artists, perfect for botanical illustrations.
- Education: Snapdragons can be used in educational settings to demonstrate plant growth, pollination, and flower anatomy due to their unique flower morphology.
- Children's Projects: The flowers can be gently pinched to make them 'talk,' making them an engaging tool for children's gardens or school projects.
- Winter Interest: Snapdragons can sometimes withstand light frosts, offering extended color and texture in autumn and early winter gardens.
- Drying and Crafts: The tall and sturdy stalks of Snapdragons can be dried and used in floral arrangements or for making craft items like wreaths and ornaments.
- Garden Borders: The vertical growth habit of Snapdragons makes them ideal for creating colorful borders or edgings in garden design.
- Dye Production: Though not commonly used for this purpose, the petals of Snapdragons can be used to produce natural dyes for fabrics and crafting.
- Time-Lapse Photography: Snapdragons can be captivating subjects for time-lapse videos, showcasing their blooming process or reactions to light and dark cycles.
- Culinary Garnish: While not a traditional edible, the flowers can occasionally be used as a colorful garnish for dishes, provided they haven't been treated with pesticides.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Snapdragon is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Snapdragon is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Deception: Antirrhinum, commonly known as Snapdragon, is thought to represent deception due to its mouth-like flowers, which seem to conceal its true nature.
- Grace: The elegant and upright growth of the Snapdragon suggests poise and grace, symbolizing dignity and composure.
- Strength: Known for their ability to grow in rocky areas, Snapdragons are symbolic of strength and resilience in the face of adversity.
- Protection: In some folklore, Snapdragons are believed to offer protection from deceit and curses when planted in a garden or carried as a talisman.
WaterSnapdragons like the 'Bells Pink' variety should be watered deeply and less frequently to encourage strong root growth. Typically, they require water once a week, but this may increase to twice a week during particularly dry or hot periods. Aim to provide about 1 to 1.5 inches of water each time, which translates to approximately 0.6 to 0.9 gallons per square foot per week. It's essential to avoid overhead watering to keep the foliage dry and prevent mildew. Check the soil moisture before watering; it should be dry an inch below the surface.
LightSnapdragons such as 'Bells Pink' perform best in full sun to partial shade. The ideal location is a spot that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. These plants can tolerate light shade but may grow leggy and produce fewer blooms if the light is too low. Ensure the chosen location is free from high buildings or trees that could block the necessary sunlight.
TemperatureSnapdragons like 'Bells Pink' prefer cool to moderate temperatures, thriving in conditions between 40 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive light frosts but will perish in temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. For optimal growth, maintaining temperatures within the ideal range during the day and not allowing them to exceed 80 degrees Fahrenheit is best.
PruningSnapdragons like 'Bells Pink' benefit from regular deadheading to encourage more blooms and maintain a tidy appearance. Pruning should be done as spent flowers fade, which may be every few weeks during the peak blooming season. Additionally, trimming back the plants by one-third after the first flush of blooms can stimulate a second bloom period. The best time to prune is in the late afternoon or early morning when temperatures are cooler.
CleaningAs needed
SoilSnapdragon 'Bells Pink' thrives in well-draining, rich soil with a pH of 6.2 to 7.0. A soil mix with loam, organic compost, and a bit of sand for drainage creates the best environment for growth. Regular fertilizer application supports vibrant blooms.
RepottingSnapdragon 'Bells Pink' doesn’t typically need frequent repotting; it is often grown as an annual. If overwintered or grown as a perennial, repot every 2-3 years or when rootbound.
Humidity & MistingSnapdragon 'Bells Pink' prefers moderate humidity levels but is adaptable to various conditions. It doesn’t require high humidity and grows well in average garden environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and keep soil consistently moist.
Outdoor
Full sun to part shade, fertile well-draining soil, protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
7-10 USDA
Life cycleSnapdragons, such as Antirrhinum majus 'Bells Pink', start their life cycle when seeds are sown either indoors, before the last frost, or directly into well-drained soil outdoors, after danger of frost has passed. The seeds germinate in temperatures between 18 to 24°C (65 to 75°F), typically within 10 to 20 days, emerging as seedlings with initial leaves. These plants grow actively in spring and early summer, developing a sturdy stem, lance-shaped leaves, and distinctive flower spikes adorned with pink, open-mouthed blooms, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. After pollination, the flowers fade, and the plant produces fruits that are small capsules containing numerous tiny seeds. Snapdragons are typically treated as annuals, completing their life cycle within one growing season; however, they can behave as short-lived perennials in areas with mild winters. At the end of their life cycle, if the conditions permit, the seeds may fall to the ground and lie dormant until the next spring, when they can germinate and start a new life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-early summer
The most popular method of propagation for Antirrhinum majus 'Bells Pink', commonly known as the Snapdragons, is through sowing seeds. Typically, Snapdragons are propagated in late winter to early spring. To propagate, seeds are sown thinly on the surface of a well-draining seed starting mix and lightly pressed into the soil, as they need light to germinate. They should be kept moist but not waterlogged, at temperatures between 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (about 18 to 24 degrees Celsius). Germination usually occurs within 10 to 21 days. Once seedlings have developed their first true set of leaves and are large enough to handle, they are usually transplanted into individual pots or spaced out in the garden to grow to maturity.
