Snapdragon Flowers

Snapdragon (Antirrhinum majus) is a cool-season bedding and cut flower with dragon-like, hinged blossoms that open when gently pinched. Native to the Mediterranean, it blooms in many colors on upright spikes and is valued for long vase life and pollinator appeal.

Occasions & recipients

Find flowers by occasion

Best occasions

  • Get well/cheer up
  • Congratulations/Graduation
  • New job or promotion
  • Housewarming
  • Spring wedding
  • Thinking of you/encouragement

Suitable for

  • Friends
  • Colleagues
  • Mentors/Teachers
  • Neighbors
  • New couples
Color taboos
  • Yellow can imply jealousy in Victorian floriography—use cautiously for romance.
  • White may be associated with mourning in parts of East Asia for celebratory gifting.
  • Very dark purples can read somber or funereal in some contexts.
  • Mixed rainbow bundles may feel noncommittal for intimate romantic messages.
Card messages
  • Wishing you strength and bright beginnings—these snapdragons are for your next chapter.
  • May these blooms bring courage and grace to your week—thinking of you!
  • Congrats on your achievement—stand tall and keep blooming!
  • Sending a burst of color and encouragement—get well soon.
  • For a home filled with cheer and resilience—welcome to your new place!

At a glance

Key details
Botanical info
Taxonomy

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Distribution
Native to the western Mediterranean (Iberia, southern France, North Africa); widely naturalized and cultivated across temperate regions worldwide; grown as an annual or short-lived perennial (approx. USDA 7–10).
Conservation
Not globally threatened; widely cultivated garden plant. Avoid wild collection and prevent escape of non-native cultivars in sensitive habitats.
Gifting & etiquette
Presentation etiquette
Keep stems upright to prevent bending; strip lower leaves before placing in water; avoid crushing the upper florets. Choose colors to match the message (soft pastels for sympathy, brights for celebration) and be mindful of cultural color sensitivities.
Ideal delivery time
Morning delivery; for events, 1–2 days in advance so upper florets can open while keeping stems cool and upright.
Health & risk
Toxicity
Generally non-toxic to humans, cats, and dogs; ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in rare cases.
Allergenicity
Low to moderate; light pollen and occasional sap-related contact dermatitis possible for sensitive handlers.

Meaning & taboos

Symbolism & color
Grace and strength in adversity, with historical notes of concealment and protection.

Growing & tools

Care & gear
Growing tips
Prefers cool weather, full sun to light shade, and well-drained, fertile soil (pH ~6.2–7.0). Start indoors 8–10 weeks before last frost; transplant early spring. Pinch tips to encourage branching, deadhead for continuous bloom, and stake tall varieties. Water at the base to limit rust; watch for aphids, thrips, and fungal leaf spots.
Recommended tools
  • Hand pruners or floral snips
  • Seed-starting trays and grow lights
  • Bamboo stakes or floral netting for support
  • Balanced, slow-release fertilizer
  • Watering wand or fine-rose can
Symbolizes
  • Strength
  • Graciousness
  • Resilience
  • Protection
  • Concealment/Deception