#antirrhinum majus

[boschintegral-photo]

Snapdragon Saint-Malo, France

[tinyshe]

[helluvatimes]

Candy Tops

Antirrhinum majus or Snapdragon ‘Candy Tops’ bringing vibrant colours to the conservatory. Photo credit: Eleanor Chua.

As this was taken against the light, exposure was biased a stop brighter so that the flowers won’t come out as silhouettes.

[faguscarolinensis]

Antirrhinum majus / Snapdragon at the Sarah P. Duke Gardens at Duke University in Durham, NC

[matthewschiavello]

Antirrhinum majus . 5618 260622

[thecryptandtheincubus]

ᕔᙁꞆĬɌɌዛĬᙁꚶᙏ ᙏᕔĴꚶꕷ άλφα

HERBARIUM : Muflier (Antirrhinum Majus)

LIEU DE CUEILLETTE : mon jardin

[whats-in-a-sentence]

Insights into the molecular basis of adaxial and abaxial identity came from analysis of the loss-of-function mutants phantastica (phan) in snapdragon (Antirrhinum majus) Figure 19.4A). (...) phan mutants produce leaves with altered adaxial-abaxial symmetry, ranging from abaxialized needlelike leaves that fail to produce lamina, to leaves with blades exhibiting mosaic of adaxial and abaxial characters (Figure 19.4B).

"Plant Physiology and Development" int'l 6e - Taiz, L., Zeiger, E., Møller, I.M., Murphy, A.

[margocooper]

Львиный зев большой, львиный зев крупный (лат. Antirrhinum majus). Октябрь 24. Snapdragon Giant . October 24.

[jillraggett]

Plant of the Day

Wednesday 26 June 2024

Creating a sweep of colour that was so loved by Christopher Lloyd at Great Dixter, East Sussex, were this group of Antirrhinum majus ‘Potomac Cherry Rose’, ‘Scarlett’ and ‘Bronze’ (snapdragon) just in front of the house. These plants are usually grown as annuals since they tend to die back after a severe frost, but they will grow as short-lived perennials in warmer areas. They thrive in the cooler temperatures of late spring and in a sunny location with rich, well-drained soil.

Jill Raggett

[francescointoppa]

Bocca di leone (Antirrhinum majus L., Plantaginaceae)

[cloudgremlin]

Quick midnight drawing for @sibillascribbles08 DTIYS for his fanfic Off Colors :3c Couldn’t help but to add my own flare with some Cloud patented Plant Facts (read under cut)

Antirrhinum majus (common snapdragon) has the fascinating flare of its dried seed pods looking like tiny skulls, making it a favourite amongst gothic gardeners. It has a history of being used as a protective charm and- of more importance to my use of it in this piece- was thought to bring charisma, glory, honour, and social status to those who wore them. Due to growing in rocky soils, the flowers have come to symbolize strength and poise in the face of adversity.

However, being representative of a dragon, lion, or dog’s head, the snapdragon also can symbolize deceit, deviousness, and indiscretion- especially those with orange blooms.

[flowerishness]

Antirrhinum majus (common snapdragon)

Snapdragons are noted for their very long blooming period and even in early November, I see them all over town. In optimal, cool-summer growing conditions, snapdragons will flower well from early spring to late fall. Antirrhinum majus is native to rocky parts of France and Spain and it's a crevice plant that prefers well-drained soil in a sunny spot. Snapdragons have been cultivated in gardens since Roman times but modern cultivars can tolerate far more shade. Just look at this healthy specimen, still 'beautifying' a boring, nondescript, downtown office building, long after all the surrounding flowers have 'thrown in the towel' for the year.

[liminalwings]

Greenery of the Draconic Persuasion

When you think of dragons and plants associated with them, what’s the first thing you think of? Most likely Dragon’s Blood, but what other plants out there are also associated with dragons? This is more of an overview rather than a suggestion of “use these plants”, because some of them really just… aren’t all pleasant to work with, but still have a fascinating history. 

Dragon’s Blood

Still good to go over the big one we all know. Dracaena is a genus of trees that is noted for having certain members, such as Dracaena draco and Dracaena cinnabari, that bleed a red resin when cut; this resin is referred to as ‘Dragon’s Blood’. The name of this genus comes from the Greek ‘drakaina’, which is the name for a female dragon. It has also been tied to the myth of Heracles, particularly the 11th task and the dragon Ladon, by some interpretations Ladon is the dragon guarding the tree or is the tree; by others, the Dracaena springs from Ladon’s blood when slain. 

Do note, however, that the majority of Dragon’s Blood resin on the market these days comes from a different genus of tree entirely, Calamus dracunculus (formerly Daemonorops draco and Calamus draco), while other genera of trees also exude a red resin that may also be referred to as Dragon’s Blood, all technically having different properties. The tree that was believed to be originally used and written about, Dracaena cinnabari of Socotra, is rated ‘vulnerable’ on its conservation status, while Dracaena draco is listed as ‘endangered’. Calamus draco meanwhile does not seem to be threatened. 

This collective of red resins do have a long history of use in medicine, art, and ritual in various cultures. The most frequent magical uses of the resin are as an incense for protection or cleansing, and dissolved in alcohol as a magical ink. With how many different trees act as a source of ‘dragon’s blood’, it is good to keep in mind that different species may vary in terms of magical/energetic traits, and that the attraction to Dragon’s Blood as a magical component could be considered these days to be more based on symbolism and human-given attributes. 

Tarragon

Artemisia dracunculus, or “Little Dragon of Artemis”, often referred to as just “dragon” in Swedish and Dutch and, in the past, German; a name that was given for the appearance of its coiled roots, or likening the shape of the leaves to dragon tongues. It is in the same genus as Mugwort, Wormwood, and Sagebrush, and French Tarragon is most frequently used for culinary purposes with a somewhat licorice-like flavor. It was believed, per Pliny the Elder, that Tarragon would ward away dragons and venomous serpents (unproven of course) and could cure snakebite (also unproven). There aren’t many historic magical uses otherwise, though some modern witchcraft practices have given it associations with protection, banishment, and healing. Scientifically, it has been proven effective at repelling insects and as a mosquito larvicidal, effectively combating the spread of malaria through less environmentally-hazardous means. 

Snapdragon

Antirrhinum majus, also referred to as ‘toadflax’, ‘dog flower’, ‘dragon flower’. It is so named because of the flower’s appearance, which is likened to a dragon’s snout that opens and closes when squeezed laterally. They come in a wonderful range of colors and, like other dragon-associated plants, are considered to be protective: in Medieval Europe, they were believed to protect from witches and ill magic, and were planted near castle gates or hung above cribs to ward off evil spirits. They were also used as a charm against falsehood, and in flower language symbolized ‘truth-telling’. The skull-like seed pods have commonly been worn to protect from curses and other bewitchments. 

Dragon Arum

Dracunculus vulgaris, also referred to as dragon lily, vampire lily, devil’s tongue, and, in its native Greece, drakondia. Like its larger cousin, the Titan arum, it is not a flower most people would be including in a nice bouquet, with respect to its fragrance being like that of rotting meat to attract flies as pollinators. Like Tarragon, not only does it share the same Latin “little dragon” name, it was also believed to ward away serpents(also also unproven), though some sources also claim that it generates serpents (flies attract other critters that snakes eat, so yeah I could see that as a conclusion). It is also one of many in the Arum family that can produce heat (thermogenesis), reaching about 65°F/18°C, which is used to lure flies to the flower for pollination. These unique physical properties can lend themselves to equally interesting potential magical associations. 

Dragon Root/Green Dragon

Arisaema dracontium is a plant native to North America. All parts of the plant are highly toxic to humans when eaten raw due to the presence of Calcium oxalate. I am including it here only to show the range of dragon-associated plants and do not necessarily advocate its use. Though historically, it has in fact been used as medicine, especially as an abortifacient and to stimulate menstrual flow. 

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This is by no means an exhaustive list of plants with dragon-inspired names, as can be seen here. But for those wanting to include draconic plants in their practice but can’t afford or can’t find a place to obtain dragon’s blood, or otherwise want to avoid using it, there are comparatively more easily-obtained alternatives at your local stores, such as Tarragon, Dragonfruit, and Snapdragons, or perhaps another native species local to you. Just make sure to do your research and know if cautions must be taken, what the physical attributes are, and if a plant is endangered or not. 

Resources

https://blogs.reading.ac.uk/tropical-biodiversity/2013/03/dracaenaceae-dragons-blood-and-the-language-of-the-birds/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dragon%27s_blood

https://herbsocietyblog.wordpress.com/2023/07/03/herb-of-the-month-french-tarragon-the-little-dragon-herb/

https://dsps.lib.uiowa.edu/roots/french-tarragon/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8076785/

https://www.gardenguides.com/126335-history-snapdragons.html

https://www.flower.style/stylewatch/discover-the-curious-origins-of-snapdragons-not-to-worry-they-dont-actually-bite

https://www.petalrepublic.com/snapdragon-flower-meaning/

https://www.gutenberg.org/cache/epub/44638/pg44638-images.html#page-153

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dracunculus_vulgaris

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arisaema_dracontium

https://ebrary.net/28107/environment/snapdragon

https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/arisaema-dracontium/

https://www.yellowwood.net/post/skunk-jacks-dragons-the-curious-arum-family

[helluvatimes]

Candy Showers

Snapdragon ‘Candy Showers Rose’ making an appearance in the conservatory here. Photo credit: Eleanor Chua.

[edensflorist]

The Striking Beauty and Symbolism of Snapdragons

Snapdragons, known for their unique shape and vibrant colors, are a captivating addition to any garden or floral arrangement. These distinctive flowers, with their dragon-like appearance, hold a wealth of symbolism and have been admired for centuries.

Historical Significance

Snapdragons (Antirrhinum majus) have been cultivated since ancient times with origins in the Mediterranean region. The name "snapdragon" comes from the flower's resemblance to a dragon's mouth that "snaps" shut when squeezed, a feature that has fascinated both children and adults alike. In folklore, snapdragons were believed to possess protective powers, often planted around homes to ward off evil spirits or bad luck.

Symbolism

Strength and Resilience: Snapdragons are often associated with the strength and resilience, symbolizing the ability to overcome challenges. This meaning comes from the plant's ability to thrive in rocky, difficult soils.

2. Deception and Grace: The duality of snapdragons-being both beautiful and strong-has also led them to symbolize deception and grace. They can represent the idea of things not always being what they seem.

3. Protection and Luck: In various traditions, snapdragons have been used as symbols of protection and good fortune. They were believed to bring positive energy and were often used in charms or worn as amulets.

Modern Interpretations

In contemporary floral design, snapdragons are appreciated for their height and bold appearance, making them ideal for adding vertical interest to arrangements. They are available in a wide range of colors, from soft pastels to bright, fiery hues, each carrying its own subtle meaning. Snapdragons are commonly used in both garden landscapes and as cut flowers, adding a touch of elegance and whimsy to any setting.

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[heartoldart]

A vintage illustration of Antirrhinum majus from I fiori dei giardini : descrizione, storia, coltura e significato simbolico (1883).

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