Snapdragon Antirrhinum majus Kim Series
ABOUT
The Antirrhinum majus Kim Series, commonly known as the Snapdragon, showcases a wonderful array of vivid flowers that resemble the open mouth of a dragon; when squeezed, they appear to snap shut, giving the plant its playful name. The flowers bloom in an impressive spectrum of colors, from bright yellows and deep purples to soft pinks and bold oranges, often with charming two-toned patterns. Snapdragons are defined by their tall spiky racemes, which are the flower clusters along the main stem, and the blossoms open from the bottom up, creating a prolonged and delightful display of color. Each flower features a distinct upper and lower lip, the upper with two lobes and the lower with three. The foliage consists of medium green leaves that are lance-shaped and arranged spirally on the stem, providing a lush backdrop for the colorful blooms. The leaves are slightly textured with fine hairs, and they taper to a point at the end. This series of Snapdragons, like others, has a bushy and upright habit, with stems that branch out slightly, giving the plant a full and compact appearance. The overall aesthetic of the Snapdragon Kim Series is one that breathes life and color into any garden, creating a dramatic visual stand with its showy and abundant blooms.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Plantaginaceae
Synonyms
Snapdragon, Dog's Mouth, Lion's Mouth, Toad's Mouth
Common names
Antirrhinum majus Kim Series.
ToxicityTo humans
The common name for Antirrhinum majus Kim Series is Snapdragons. Snapdragons are not considered toxic to humans. They are generally regarded as safe and are sometimes used in floral arrangements and even in the culinary field for garnishes due to their non-toxic nature. However, like any plant, if a person were to ingest a large amount, it could potentially cause mild stomach upset due to the unusual matter in the digestive system, but this is not common.
To pets
The common name for Antirrhinum majus Kim Series is Snapdragons. Snapdragons are generally considered non-toxic to pets as well. They are not listed on the toxic plant lists that are maintained by various pet and animal welfare organizations. If a pet were to ingest part of a Snapdragon plant, it is unlikely to experience any significant symptoms of poisoning. That being said, individual animals can sometimes have unique reactions or sensitivities, and ingestion might result in mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, though this is not typical.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
0.5-1 feet (15-30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: The plant is known to draw bees and butterflies, which are essential for pollination in gardens.
- Ease of Care: Snapdragons like the Kim Series are relatively low maintenance, making them accessible to gardeners of varying experience levels.
- Long Blooming Period: Snapdragons typically have a long flowering season, providing colorful displays for extended periods.
- Versatility: The plant can be used for borders, beds, and containers, offering a variety of landscaping options.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Snapdragons bring height and vibrant colors to gardens, which can complement other plants and enhance the overall visual appeal.
- Cut Flowers: The blooms are long-lasting when cut and are popular in floral arrangements and bouquets.
- Variety of Colors: The Kim Series comes in a range of colors, allowing gardeners to create diverse and colorful landscapes.
- Deer Resistance: Snapdragons are not a preferred plant for deer, reducing the likelihood of damage from wildlife.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Snapdragon flowers can be pressed and used in craft projects, such as creating bookmarks, greeting cards, or in scrapbooking to add natural beauty and a personal touch.
- The petals of the snapdragon can be used as a natural dye for fabrics and yarns, producing various shades depending on the mordant and the color of the petals used.
- A post-bloom snapdragon stalk can be dried and used as a support stake for other plants in the garden, making use of its sturdy stem structure.
- With its mouth-like flowers, snapdragons can be used educationally to demonstrate plant pollination to children in a fun and interactive way.
- The plant can be integrated into a sensory garden, providing a tactile experience as the flowers open and close when gently squeezed.
- Used in floral photography, snapdragons can provide a vibrant backdrop or the main focus owing to their array of colors and intricate flower shapes.
- Snapdragon seed pods resemble little skulls when dried, and can be used for Halloween decorations or in crafts that require a Gothic or whimsical element.
- Due to their vertical growth habit, snapdragons can be used to create living walls or green privacy screens in gardens and patios.
- The snapdragon's stems and foliage can be included in compost as green matter, contributing to the nutrient cycle of a home garden.
- In climates where they're perennial, snapdragons can be used as low hedges or border plants, providing structure and year-round greenery in garden design.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Snapdragons are not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Snapdragons is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Deception or Graciousness: Also called "Snapdragon," Antirrhinum majus is associated with both deception and graciousness. This is due to the flower's ability to resemble a dragon's face that opens and closes when laterally squeezed, which signals both the protection of valuable things and also the potential for hiding true intentions.
- Strength: The snapdragon is seen as a symbol of strength, resilience, and fortitude. It can grow in rocky areas and often stands tall and vibrant even in challenging conditions.
- Power: Due to its dragon-like shape, snapdragons are linked to the power and mysticism typically associated with dragons in many cultures.
WaterSnapdragons prefer consistent moisture, but it's important not to overwater them. They should be watered deeply once a week, providing about one inch of water each time. During hot or dry periods, watering frequency may need to increase to every two or three days. It's best to water early in the morning to allow foliage to dry out during the day, reducing the risk of fungal diseases. Make sure to avoid getting water on the flowers and foliage by watering at the base of the plant.
LightSnapdragons thrive in full sun to partial shade, with at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. They perform best when planted in a location that receives morning sun and some afternoon shade, especially in regions with very hot summers. Too little light can lead to leggy plants with fewer blooms.
TemperatureSnapdragons prefer cooler temperatures and will flourish in conditions between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can withstand light frosts and will often survive in temperatures as low as 40 degrees Fahrenheit. However, temperatures above 80 degrees Fahrenheit can cause the plants to stop blooming and go dormant. Ideal temperatures are cooler nights and mild daytime temperatures.
PruningPruning snapdragons is crucial to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Pinching back the tips when the plants are young will promote branching. Deadheading spent flowers should be done regularly to stimulate new blooms. After the main bloom period, cutting back the plant by one-third can result in a second flush of flowers later in the season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilSnapdragon 'Kim Series' prefers well-draining soil with a mix of loam, peat, and sand in equal parts. The ideal soil pH should range from 6.2 to 7.0 to promote healthy growth and flowering.
RepottingSnapdragons, including the 'Kim Series', generally do not need frequent repotting and are often grown as annuals. If grown as perennials, repot every 2-3 years or as needed to refresh soil.
Humidity & MistingSnapdragons like the 'Kim Series' prefer moderate humidity levels. They can tolerate some dry air but perform best when humidity does not dip too low.
Suitable locationsIndoor
For Snapdragons indoors, ensure bright light, cool temps, and airflow.
Outdoor
Plant Snapdragons in sun/part-shade, enrich soil, water regularly.
Hardiness zone
7-10 USDA
Life cycleThe life of the common Snapdragon starts with seed germination, occurring in warm, moist soil conditions, typically in early spring. The seedlings develop into vegetative plants with characteristic lanceolate leaves and begin to develop a sturdy stem. As they mature, Snapdragons enter the flowering stage, showcasing a vibrant array of colors along tall spikes; this usually happens in late spring to early summer. Following pollination, which can be by insects or self-fertilization, the flowers produce small fruit capsules containing seeds. After seed set, and as the seasons change towards fall, the Snapdragon completes its life cycle by senescing; it may die back if exposed to frost or can behave as a short-lived perennial in milder climates, surviving to bloom again. Throughout its life cycle, the Snapdragon requires adequate sunlight and well-drained soil to thrive.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagation for Antirrhinum majus, commonly known as snapdragons, is by sowing seeds. Optimal propagation time is typically in late winter to early spring, allowing for seedlings to be ready for transplant after the last frost. Seeds should be gently pressed into the surface of a well-draining soil mix because they need light to germinate. They usually take 10-20 days to germinate at a temperature of 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit (18-24 degrees Celsius). Once seedlings have developed a few true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden, being careful to space them about 6 to 12 inches (15-30 cm) apart to ensure adequate airflow and sunlight for optimal growth.
