Antirrhinum majus is a perennial plant that is cultivated as an annual. Its height reaches 20 to 120 cm, depending on the variety. There are dwarf varieties from 20 – 40 cm and tall varieties from 40 -120 cm.
Its name is due to its flowers! When we were children we played with its flowers, which form a dog's mouth that opens and closes when pressed laterally. Antirrhinum comes from the word antirrhinum!
The dog is a plant with ornamental value because of the intense colors in its flowers.
Leaves
Its leaves are lance-shaped, elongated, dark green and their length reaches up to 5 cm.
Flowers
Its flowers grow in long flower inflorescences and start from the bottom towards the top. Its flowers have a wide variety of colors such as white, yellow, orange, pink, red and fuchsia. There are varieties with impressive two-color flowers, while some are fragrant. Its flowering lasts from the beginning of Spring to the end of Autumn.
Terrain
It grows satisfactorily in all types of soil, without particular problems. A necessary condition is that the soil has good drainage. It prefers sandy soils, rich in nutrients.
Position
Prefers positions with sun or moderate shade. In sunny locations it grows better and produces more flowers.
Watering
It does not have high water requirements, except in the summer months when you can increase its watering.
Lubrication
It does not have high nutrient requirements. It is good to apply a water-soluble fertilizer in early spring and every 30 days until early autumn.
Durability
It thrives in places with mild winters and can withstand cold and low temperatures up to - 2ο C. Caution is required with strong winds. Suitable for planting in areas with heavy air pollution. It withstands coastal areas.
Pruning
No need for pruning! It is good to remove the dried flowers in order to achieve continuous flowering. We can also top over 4 pairs of leaves to achieve the growth of many lateral shoots.
Diseases and enemies
Its most common enemies are aphids (meligra) and rust (brown spots on leaves and shoots). To avoid rust, make sure you water in the morning and be careful not to overdo it with watering.
It is suitable for
-
-
- For planting in coastal areas.
- In individual places in the garden.
- For planting in a pot.
- Forms beautiful clusters.
-
Flowerpot 8 cm
