Snapdragons: Cool-Season Color for Sun and Containers

Snapdragons (Antirrhinum majus) are cool-season annuals that bloom in a dazzling array of bright colors, pastels, and white. Sizes range from 6- to 8-inch dwarfs to 3-foot giants, with flower forms including the classic "snapping" jaws, doubles, bells, and azalea shapes.

Planting and Care

Space dwarf varieties 9 inches apart, taller types 15 inches apart. Provide full sun and regular watering. Snapdragons are prone to rust—choose resistant varieties and avoid overhead watering, which spreads spores. (Don't let plants dry out completely, though; rust spreads faster in hot, dry conditions.)

With proper care, these charming flowers provide weeks of cool-season color in beds, borders, and containers.