ANTIRRHINUM

Snapdragon. Hardy perennial



In bygone years Antirrhinums were seldom seen beyond the limits of

old-fashioned cottage gardens. But even then the Snapdragon was a

popular flower, and it was generally perpetuated by subdivision of the

plants. Now, in common with a large number of perennials and biennials,

the Antirrhinum is almost exclusively grown from seed. This altered

method of culture has resulted in a marked advance in the size and

colour of the spikes of bloom, and has also increased the vigour and

floriferous character of the plants. In the process of raising,

selecting and re-selecting the stocks, experts have found it possible to

develop three distinct classes--Tall, Intermediate, and Dwarf--so that

the value of the plant as an ornament in the garden has been advanced

beyond the dreams of a former generation of gardeners. The Tall

varieties attain a height of about three feet; the Intermediates

generally range between twelve and eighteen inches, and the Dwarf or Tom

Thumb section seldom exceeds six inches. All three classes have a

distinct value for different positions in the garden.



Antirrhinums are not fastidious as to soil and may be relied on to give

satisfaction in almost any spot chosen for them. Still, it must be

admitted that they are conspicuously successful on dry soils and in

sunny positions. This will account for the surprising displays

occasionally seen on old walls and in large wild rockeries, where they

are perfectly at home, apparently indifferent to the starving conditions

in which their lot is cast.



The fact that the plant possesses such sturdy independence of character

greatly enhances its value and usefulness. Nothing more handsome can be

imagined in a border than the gigantic spikes of the Tall varieties, and

they make a magnificent decoration for vases at a season when flowers

suitable for cutting are much needed. The Intermediate Antirrhinums,

like the Tall class, combine advantages for both bedding purposes and

for cutting, perhaps in a still greater degree. The varieties are so

numerous and charming that an enthusiast has suggested the desirability

of devoting a garden to Antirrhinums alone. Although the Tom Thumb

section is also frequently employed for bedding, these dwarf-growing

varieties are better adapted for ribbon borders, or as an edging to

carriage drives.



Antirrhinums may be grown as half-hardy annuals or as perennials, but

the former is the simplest course for obtaining plants for summer

bedding. Sow the seeds in pans or boxes from January to March, and prick

off the seedlings as soon as large enough to handle. Grow on steadily

and gradually harden off in readiness for planting out after the

Wallflowers and other spring bedders have been removed. After flowering

it will save trouble to consign the plants to the waste heap and again

raise a sufficient supply to fill their places in the following spring.

When grown as perennials, seed should be sown in July or August. Leave

the plants in the seed-bed until ready for transfer to final positions.

These will stand the winter and come into flower earlier than plants

from spring-sown seed.