The Snapdragon is a very uncommon name to call an ornamental flower but is actually quite popular garden plants. The first idea you would imagine in your head is the bright red scales and long, slender body of an ancient dragon!
Instead, this gorgeous flower has quite a unique meaning and symbolism amidst how it looks. In the language of flowers, the many meanings depending on the history and color of the flowers gave it the name it has today. The color meanings behind the flower are very interesting.
For example, a white Snapdragon symbolizes generosity while a red one means jealousy. Other colors such as pink and purple represent strength and motivation. Snapdragons with a yellow and orange bloom represents passion and deception.
History of Snapdragon Flowers
The common name Snapdragon was first used in 1573 and is scientifically known as Antirrhinum majus. The genus name Antirrhinums derived from the Greek words anti meaning alike and rhis meaning snout. Therefore, the Greek word translates literally in common English to a snout-like flower – more like the flower closely resembling the snout of a dragon or sometimes some say it looks like a dragon’s head.
The Snapdragon belongs to the Plantaginaceae or commonly known Plantain family with only about 20 species in the said genus. This lovely flower is an herbaceous perennial native to North America, North Africa, and the western Mediterranean region. These regions include Morocco, Portugal, France, Syria, southern Spain, and Turkey.
Common Snapdragon flowers require an upright growing habitat in rocky areas under full sun conditions. With the right growing conditions, the plant produces nose like long stalks that when gently squeezed looks like a dragon’s mouth.
Because of its appearance and its name that means dog headed, the Snapdragons have many other known common names and yes, it isn’t known by just two names. Other names these flowers go by include Lion’s mouth or Toad’s mouth in Holland. In India, it is known as the Dog flower in India.
Just like other flowers, the Snapdragon has popular varieties. These varieties include the Lucky Lips and the Black Prince. Enjoy these flowers bloom during the months of early summer until late fall when the frost sets in.
Symbolism of Snapdragon Blossoms
The meaning symbolism behind the Snapdragons traces back to its unique traits and history. Snapdragons are known to symbolize strength. It can also symbolize grace and overcoming challenging situations because it thrives in a harsh native habitat. It is also symbolic of a person’s ability to overcome problems and struggles in life.
The flowers are an esteemed symbol of positive energy and good luck. In fact, 2019 was the year of the Snapdragon as declared by the National Garden Bureau. It is also a flower that can send messages. When you send Snapdragons, it sends a clear message to the receiver. This action is a symbol of truth telling.
Meaning of Snapdragon Blooms
Snapdragons not only have associated symbolic meanings but also messages it would like admirers to understand. The language of flowers says that the etymological meaning of the Antirrhinum is associated with the beauty of nurture and embrace. May this be in the sense of human affection or the warmth of mother nature, nonetheless, these flowers give a sense of belongingness to those who know how to appreciate.
There are other several meanings also associated with the Snapdragon. These various meanings depend on the colorful blooms. In fact, various colors of this flower have many meanings.
A Snapdragon is a reminder of the abundance and sparkle for all the good things in life no matter how small and simple they may be. It also implies that you should be proud of the accomplishments and the progress you have achieved! It stands for overall good luck. With the current situation of the world, it is important to always be proud of yourself. So, don’t forget to give yourself a pat on the back every now and then for a job well done!
Here are some of the different meanings behind each color of the Snapdragons.
What does a White Snapdragon Flower Mean?
White Snapdragons with creamy white or ivory white shades give off the meaning of generosity and the embodiment of a gracious lady.
What does a Red Snapdragon Flower Symbolize?
Red snapdragons offer symbols of jealousy and indiscretion. Who doesn’t lack good judgment and a clear mind during such moments, right? These kinds of colored flowers also serve as a reminder of always having clear thoughts and an open mind.
What does a Pink Snapdragon Bloom Indicate?
Pink Snapdragons represent strength in oneself and embody inner graciousness. It speaks of your inner strength during trying times. Mostly being associated with women of social class, the image of graciousness is also represented by being prim and proper.
What does a Purple Snapdragon Flower Signify?
Antirrhinums with purple flowers indicate an initiative of encouragement and motivation in situations with unpredictable outcomes. Funny enough, purple Snapdragons are a great reminder that uncertainty lies with each waking day we have! Embrace it and always live life to the fullest!
What does a Yellow Snapdragon Flower Symbolize?
Yellow is a bright shade and in the case of Antirrhinums with flowers of this color, it symbolizes creativity and deep-rooted passion for new things. Yellow Snapdragons symbolize happiness and are a great reminder of living life as your own version of yourself!
What does an Orange Snapdragon Flower Mean?
Orange is commonly often associated with hazards such as in traffic cones and signs. In the language of flowers, orange snapdragons can represent either deception or the force of another’s will over your own! So, better yet be wary of these colored blooms!
What is the Cultural Significance of a Snapdragon Blossom?
Since ancient times, many cultures have associated their own beliefs to the Snapdragon. Centuries ago, the Snapdragon had a different meaning to what it is known today.n During the Victorian era, the flowers were symbolic of being presumptuous. Women in medieval Europe often wore the flower on their clothing or hair to send a message of not being interested in other men. What a way to reject someone during the Victorian times!
Since the flowers are similar to a calf’s snout or dragon’s face, it was once used as a charm during the medieval times to ward off evil. Sometimes, it was also a symbol of deception. And in other cultures, this flower is associated with spirituality.
What are the Myths Associated with Snapdragon Flowers?
The human mythology behind these flowers is quite interesting. A few of these well-known myths come from the beliefs of European folklore and for the Greek and Roman empire. It was used as a charm with good magic. It can break black magic spells or cast away evil and bad luck. If you believe in such a myth, you can always opt to keep a flower or a petal or two with you on hand for magical protection!
Whatever you do, better not place these flowers in front of a mirror though! It was said that placing these flowers in front of a mirror reflects back negativity and curses to those who sent them!
What Does a Snapdragon Floral Tattoo Symbolize?
A Snapdragon tattoo with plain or colored Antirrhinum flowers embodies purity grace, protection, and strength. It is the tattoo design chosen by most modern-day women.
Uses of Snapdragon Plants
Snapdragon snapdragons have an array of uses ranging from being consumed to being extracted for its oil. The more blooms, the more oil can be extracted. Aside from this, it is commonly ornamented as a garden plant on flower beds, potted plant, or cut flowers in a vase. Some even go as bold as adding these flowers to wedding bouquets. You can also give this flower to loved ones to symbolize their strength and perseverance.
But did you know that a dye can be made from its flowers? You read that right! A green dye is obtained from its flowers while the oil extracted from leaves is edible and as healthy as olive oil!
Aside from those, there have been claims that its leaves and flowers are traditionally used as a treatment for inflammations and swellings. It is also claimed that poultices of snapdragons treat tumors, ulcers, and hemorrhoids. A word of warning that it’s a must to always consult a medical professional before using this plant or any part of it for medical purposes.
~ image source: depositphotos/boonsom