Meaning Of Snapdragon

It is said that snapdragons represent both deception (perhaps tied to the notion of concealment) and graciousness. The act of concealing a snapdragon makes a person appear fascinating and cordial, and in the language of flowers.

The word snapdragon is derived from the Greek words "anti", meaning like, and "rhin", meaning nose, thus its botanical name Antirrhinum because of its snout-shape.

Legend has it that its common name comes from the snap it makes when the sides of the "dragon's mouth" are gently squeezed. While their actual origin is unknown, it's believed that snapdragons were originally wildflowers in Spain and Italy.

In gardens they need to be planted in a soil that drains well to prevent the roots from rotting.

The tall-spike stems usually have fully opened florets upon arrival with the buds on the upper portion showing a hint of color. Colors include pink, purple, lavender, white, yellow, orange and burgundy. They come in a range of heights from as small as 6 inches to as tall as 48 inches and are often sold as cold-season annual plants and that do best in full or partial sun.

Snapdragons are available year-round and will last five to 10 days. They require lots of water, so check water level frequently.