Plantaginaceae

  • Veronica brachysiphon – Hebe from New Zealand

    Veronica brachysiphon is a shrub that is endemic in New Zealand but making its way across the planet to be found in gardens, like UK. It is part of the Plantaginaceae family that includes  Antirrhinums and Fox Gloves among many more species. Common name is Hookers Hebe after Sir Joseph Dalton Hooker, Director of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. 

    Loved by the Bees

    The Bees were very active on this flowering shrub. It thrives on well drained soil and can tolerate a wide range of situations. 

    Veronica brachysiphon

  • Antirrhinum – Snapdragon – border annual for a blaze of colour

    Antirrhinum, commonly known as snapdragons, are a bright, bold colourful flowering border plant. The name “snapdragon” comes from the unique shape of the flowers, which resemble the face of a dragon that “snaps” open and shut when squeezed. The name Antirrhinum comes from the Greek, anti or opposite (or fake) and rhinos or nose. So again being like an animal’s mouth.

    Antirrhinum, or snapdragon, is a genus of flowering plants in the family Plantaginaceae. These plants are native to Europe, North America, and North Africa. Whilst they are generally annuals, some are perennials or even sub-shrubs. They generally have a long flowering season from early summer to mid-autumn. Flowers start to bloom from the bottom of a thick stem and continue to bloom right up to the top. To keep them looking their best you can dead-head regularly once the lower flowers are looking spent.

    Antirrhinum Snapdragon 5

    Names

    Scientific name:

    Antirrhinum

    Common Names:

    Snapdragon

    Genus:

    Antirrhinum

    Family:

    Plantaginaceae

    Related Plants:

    Digitalis (Foxgloves), Hebe, Penstemon

    Growing Conditions

    Position:

    full sun, partial shade

    Soil Type:

    sandy, chalky, loamy

    Soil pH:

    slightly acid, neutral

    Moisture:

    moist, well drained

    Rank

    Genus

    Do snapdragons like shade or sun? The answer to that is more complex. They can tolerate full sun or partial shade, as long as it is not too harsh. They do not have resilience to hot and dry climates but rather they like cool sun, moisture but well drained.

    They are also known to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, so can add to the overall biodiversity of your garden or border. In addition to their ornamental appeal, snapdragons can serve practical functions in the garden. They can act as a natural deterrent for certain pests due to their strong scent. Planting them near vegetables or herbs can provide a natural repellent effect, thus protecting your crops. This symbiotic relationship between flowers and food plants can create a healthier garden ecosystem.

    From a size perspective, they can range from 6 inches to 3-4 feet high. So choose your plants carefully, and plant in the right position to maximise the flowering display in relation tote other plants around them. Depending on how far back in the border they will be to give that layered look to the border. Dwarf varieties, of course, are perfect for the front of border.

    As an annual plant, snapdragons usually complete their life cycle from seed to seed in one growing season. They can be used as cut flowers, making them a popular choice for bouquets and arrangements. When cut, snapdragons can last up to two weeks in a vase, allowing their beauty to be enjoyed indoors as well.

    Snapdragons can be grown from seeds, which should be sown indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost. Alternatively, once the threat of frost has passed, they can be directly sown outdoors. Plants should be given adequately space to allow for their growth, typically around 6 to 12 inches apart, depending on the variety. 

    Modern varieties can be resilient but take care of aphids and diseases such as rust, mildew and wilt. Having Ladybirds/bugs around will help with the aphids. The diseases will require you planting in the right environment to control moisture and not spread disease from one plant to another. A correct balance of heat, breeze and moisture is important to avoid such disease.

    Snapdragons are not just beautiful; they also have a rich history. Once a staple in English gardens, they were often used in herbal remedies. The flowers were believed to possess medicinal properties, and despite their beauty, they were a key ingredient in various potions. Today, they continue to symbolise grace and strength in floral arrangements, making them a favourite among florists and garden enthusiasts alike.