Written by Matthew Patterson, Visitor Services Associate
Antirrhinum derives its name from the ancient Greek, meaning literally “like a nose,” due to the nose-like capsule of the mature plant. However, most people will know this particular flower by its common name, snapdragon. This more popular term comes from the resemblance of the plant to a dragon’s mouth when gently squeezed together.
In addition to being an outstanding cut flower, snapdragons are also especially useful since they’re a cool-season annual, coming into their own in early spring and blooming through fall to add shades of red, pink, yellow, orange, and white to the gardens around them. The next time you visit the Museum, be sure to look out for this popular addition.
